Governor Tim Walz says four opioid manufacturers settling two lawsuits in Ohio bodes well for possible agreement in a multi-state lawsuit which Minnesota is part of. “I think the opioid manufacturers have understood that they need to be part of this solution. I know our attorney general is working to work out a compromise amongst the states,” Walz says.
A spokesman for Attorney General Keith Ellison says they “continue to be involved in ongoing negotiations” but would not give details, citing a judge’s gag order. Late Monday four attorneys-general from other states — two Republicans and two Democrats — proposed a 48-billion-dollar global settlement with opioid manufacturers.
Walz says he hopes insulin manufacturers follow suit, and agree to contribute to a statewide assistance program. “Be partners with us in this…. They certainly possess the resources to do it. It would be a gesture of collaboration and good will. So I’m hoping maybe that’s what they’re seeing,” the governor says.
Democrats and Republicans are setting up a working group to again try to break the stalemate at the State Capitol. House Speaker Melissa Hortman wants recommendations from the group within 60 days. Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka yesterday suggested a 30-day deadline.