OxyContin-maker Purdue goes to judge to confirm settlement

By GEOFF MULVIHILL
Associated Press

NEW YORK (AP) — Purdue Pharma’s quest to settle thousands of lawsuits over OxyContin’s toll has entered its final phase with the grudging acceptance of most of those who have claims against the company. A confirmation hearing opened in U.S. Bankruptcy Court on Thursday for a deal that removes control of the company from members of the wealthy Sackler family and requires them to contribute $4.5 billion to opioid abatement. While most states and others with claims that have cast votes have signed on, there’s still deep anger that Sackler family members would receive protection from lawsuits under the deal.