Attorney General Ashley Moody announced a $700 million settlement with Johnson & Johnson over allegations of deceptive marketing of talcum powder products, with Florida set to receive $48.1 million of the total amount.

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody announced a $700 million settlement with Johnson & Johnson this week over claims the company misled consumers about the safety of its talcum powder products.

The settlement, which involves 42 other attorneys general, resolves allegations that Johnson & Johnson violated the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA).

“We are leading a multistate action against Johnson & Johnson’s deceptive marketing of products that contained talc, securing $700 million nationwide,” Moody said. “This is a major advancement for consumer product safety, as Johnson & Johnson has stopped the manufacturing and marketing of products containing talc powder—which may be linked to serious health issues, including cancer.”

The legal action is predicated upon Johnson & Johnson’s promotional practices for its talcum powder products, including Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower. The Florida Attorney General’s office, along with other state attorneys general, alleged that Johnson & Johnson engaged in deceptive marketing by not adequately disclosing potential health risks associated with these products.

Under the terms of the settlement, Johnson & Johnson will pay $700 million, which will be distributed among the participating states. Florida will receive $48.1 million, paid in four annual installments. The first payment of $11.9 million is due by July 30, 2024, with subsequent payments of approximately $12 million each year through 2027.

The company did not admit wrongdoing or liability as part of the settlement.

The settlement includes compliance provisions, requiring Johnson & Johnson to cease manufacturing, marketing, promoting, selling, or distributing talcum powder products in the United States. Furthermore, the company has agreed not to resume these activities either directly or through third parties.

According to the settlement agreement, Florida’s payout will be used for consumer restitution, investigation costs, and future consumer protection initiatives. The funds may also support educational programs aimed at informing the public about product safety and consumer rights.

This settlement comes amid growing scrutiny of Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder products, which have been the subject of thousands of lawsuits alleging they cause cancer. Although the company has consistently denied these claims, it has faced recurring legal and financial challenges.