By Bill Britt
Alabama Political Reporter
Alabama Attorney General Luther Strange announced on Friday that BP’s settlement agreement with individuals and private businesses does not affect the state’s claims against the company as a result of the 2010 oil spill.
Strange, who was appointed as coordinating counsel for the Gulf states by U.S. District Judge Carl Barbier, said BP still has to resolve claims by the federal, state and local governments.
“The settlement announced last night between BP and private plaintiffs does not impact Alabama’s claims against BP and the other defendants for the damage done to our economy and environment. We are fully prepared to try our case, and we hope that the court sets a new trial date in the near future. Alabama will continue to work closely with the United States Department of Justice and the other Gulf States to hold BP and the other defendants fully accountable for the disaster in the Gulf.”
The oil giant agreed earlier on Friday to settle lawsuits brought private citizens who claimed harm from the 2010 oil spill.
The settlement will have no cap to compensate the plaintiffs, though BP PLC estimated it would have to pay out about $7.8 billion, making it one of the largest class-action settlements ever.
