Federal Judge Approves $600 Million Settlement for East Palestine Residents

A federal judge has approved a $600 million class-action settlement for residents within a 20-mile radius of the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, which occurred in February 2023. The settlement, supported by approximately 55,000 claims, allows eligible residents to receive up to $70,000 for property damage and $25,000 for health issues, with amounts decreasing for those living farther away. Despite the approval, some residents have raised concerns that the settlement process was rushed and may not adequately address their health risks, particularly regarding incomplete EPA test results. They have also expressed frustration with the lack of transparency in the negotiation process, with only 370 households opting out of the agreement. The railroad has previously offered $108 million in assistance, but the settlement does not include an admission of wrongdoing. Payments are expected to begin before the end of the year, as the judge's ruling allows for swift disbursement.