Kroger, the national grocery store chain, has agreed to a $1.37 billion settlement with thirty states across the country, including Alabama, to compensate for its role in the ongoing opioid crisis.

Of that recent settlement, Alabama will receive up to approximately $19.8 million for opioid abatement, with payments expected to begin early next year.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall commented on the legal agreement from Kroger and the new funding made available by it.

“Alabama has taken a bold path to address the opioid crisis that is devastating communities around the state, and today’s announcement reaffirms our ongoing commitment to address this epidemic,” Marshall said. “As these funds begin to flow into the state, my office remains steadfast in our commitment to ensuring accountability and directing these resources toward urgently needed support for communities affected by addiction.”

Kroger operates eleven grocery stores across Alabama under its own name and its subsidiaries, which include Harris Teeter, Dillons, Fred Meyer, Smith’s Food and Drug, Ralphs, King Soopers, Fry’s, QFC, City Market, Jay C, Pay Less, Baker’s, Gerbes, Pick ‘n Save, Metro Market, and Mariano’s.

Additionally, Kroger has agreed to injunctive relief that requires its pharmacies to monitor, report, and share data about suspicious activity related to opioid prescriptions.

Prior to this settlement, the state of Alabama had already reached settlements totaling over $730 million for Alabama to resolve claims against drug manufacturers and other entities over their roles in the crisis.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten