Judge rules for Oklahoma, awards approximately $572 million in opioid crisis

Posted on: 8/30/19


Cleveland County District Judge Thad Balkman, ruled in favor of the State of Oklahoma on Monday in its lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson, awarding approximately $572 million to help abate the opioid crisis, saying the company helped create.  

“The opioid crisis has ravaged the State of Oklahoma, it must be abated immediately,” Judge Balkman said from the bench.

After more than six weeks of testimony before the judge, he said Oklahoma had met its burden to show the company has created a public nuisance. The ruling is the first of its kind in the country to find an opioid manufacturer liable for the harm caused from the opioid crisis in the U.S.

Oklahoma outlined an abatement plan that would range between $12.6 billion for 20 years or $17.5 billion over 30 years. Johnson & Johnson’s attorneys argued that estimate is inflated and the state was trying to hold the company liable with no evidence it caused the crisis.

Balkman awarded Oklahoma $571.1 million for the abatement program. Johnson & Johnson has indicated it will appeal Balkman’s decision and the award to the Oklahoma Supreme Court.

To view OHA communications sent to hospital CEO’s earlier this week, click here. 

Save the dates for OHA 2022 events

Posted on: 2/18/22


It’s a new year and a new lineup of important events for you and your staff. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to engage in advocacy, education and networking all year long. Mark your calendar now!

OHA Advocacy Day - Tuesday, April 5, Oklahoma History Center. Join us for our annual legislative day. We will begin with a member briefing at 3 p.m., followed by a legislative reception at 5 p.m. Watch for registration materials soon.

OHA-PAC Golf Tournament - Tuesday, June 21, Jimmie Austin Golf Club at OU, Norman. Time and details TBA.

OHA Health Care Leaders Forum - Tuesday, July 19 - Thursday, July 21, Shangri-La Resort, Grand Lake. Watch for registration soon!

OHA Connect 22 - Wednesday, Nov. 9 - Friday, Nov. 11, Oklahoma City Convention Center and Omni Hotel, downtown Oklahoma City. Plan now to attend OHA’s annual conference and exhibit hall. More details to come.

Details on these events and other upcoming education opportunities will be available on the OHA website.