DETROIT -- The last major obstacle to Dow Corning Corp.'s settlement with women who claim silicone breast implants made them sick was removed yesterday when the final group of women dropped their objections.
A lawyer involved in the settlement with about 170,000 women said the first checks should go out by the end of the year. A federal judge must set the date.
Dow Corning, a joint venture of Midland-based
As part of the company's reorganization plan, it set up a fund now worth $2.35 billion to pay implant-related claims.
Most plaintiffs agreed to the settlement instead of pressing on with lawsuits. But a group of 48 Nevada women objected.
"I continue to believe Dow Chemical was responsible for the pain and suffering of untold numbers of women," said Geoff White, a lawyer for the Nevada women. "It simply became clear that the process would take too long for very sick women in Nevada and elsewhere to recover for their injuries."
Dow Corning spokeswoman Mary Lou Benecke said the company was pleased with the Nevada women's decision. Individuals can receive $2,000 to $330,000 under the settlement, he said.
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