TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Stacey Shrader Joslin on Mar 14, 2022

A coalition of 22 East Tennessee localities has filed suit against three opioid producers and five pharmacies, citing years-long practices that fueled a deadly and illegal drug trade through the marketing, over-prescription and diversion of opioids. The suit, filed Friday in Sevier County Circuit Court, targets Endo, Par, Teva, CVS, Food City, Rite Aid, Walgreens and Walmart. Lawyers for the plaintiffs argue the companies can be held liable under Tennessee’s Drug Dealer Liability Act, and are seeking $25 billion to cover increased law enforcement needs; housing, care and rehabilitation of opioid-dependent adults and babies; special education needs; additional jail space; and drug treatment programs. Gerard Stranch, managing partner of Branstetter, Stranch & Jennings, is leading the effort, according to a press release from the firm.