JUNEAU — Alaska Attorney General Treg Taylor announced Monday that all 55 U.S. attorneys general — including representatives from every state and territory — have agreed to a $7.4 billion settlement with Purdue Pharma and its owners, the Sackler family, resolving long-running litigation tied to the nation’s devastating opioid epidemic.
The agreement, which is still subject to bankruptcy court approval, would end the Sacklers’ involvement with Purdue Pharma and bar them from selling opioids in the United States. Funds from the settlement will be distributed to communities across the country over the next 15 years, with a heavy concentration of payments in the first three years.
Alaska could receive up to $12.2 million as part of the agreement, intended to fund addiction treatment, prevention, and recovery programs statewide.
“Today marks another significant step in addressing the opioid crisis,” said Attorney General Taylor. “It’s not just about money — it’s about accountability. This settlement ensures we’re committed to reversing this epidemic and supporting those affected.”
Under the agreement, the Sackler family will pay $1.5 billion immediately. Additional payments will follow: $900 million in the first year, $500 million in the second year, and $400 million in the third. Purdue Pharma will also contribute toward the payout.
Commissioner Heidi Hedberg of the Alaska Department of Health said the new funds will expand critical services.
“These funds will directly support Alaskans through expanded prevention, treatment, and recovery services,” she said. “Every life we can help save and restore brings us closer to ending the opioid crisis in our state.”
Alaska has already secured nearly $100 million in opioid-related settlements, including this most recent deal. About $85 million is earmarked for state efforts, with $15 million distributed among nine local political subdivisions. To date, the state has awarded $8.5 million to 18 grantees, including the Bethel Family Clinic, Mat-Su Youth Housing, and Petersburg Medical Center.
According to the Department of Health, Alaska recorded 245 opioid overdose deaths between March 2024 and February 2025, along with 91 opioid-related emergency department visits.
The local government sign-on process for this settlement will proceed pending approval in bankruptcy court. A hearing is scheduled in the coming days.
