The multidistrict litigation involving aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) continues to evolve rapidly, with thousands of plaintiffs seeking justice for health problems allegedly linked to PFAS, the harmful chemicals in the foam.
As of early April 2025, the case count continues to climb, key deadlines are approaching, and speculation around a possible settlement is growing stronger. Here’s a breakdown of the current status of the litigation. Learn more with a Charlotte AFFF foam mass tort lawyer now.
Case Count Update: Lawsuits Continue to Mount
As of April 1, 2025, the total number of active cases in the AFFF MDL has reached 8,928. In March alone, 498 new cases were filed—matching the surge from February.
This steady increase highlights the ongoing momentum of the litigation, driven largely by plaintiffs alleging various forms of cancer and other serious health conditions caused by AFFF exposure. The court is currently prioritizing expert testimony for thyroid and liver cancer claims.
A dedicated Science Day, focusing specifically on these two cancers, is scheduled for June 20, 2025. This event will give both sides an opportunity to present scientific findings to the judge without the pressures of cross-examination or courtroom objections.
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New MDL Deadlines Set by the Judge
On March 28, 2025, the judge overseeing the AFFF MDL issued important new deadlines related to expert disclosures in liver and thyroid cancer cases.
These deadlines reflect the court’s continued push to keep the bellwether discovery schedule on track: Plaintiffs’ expert reports are due by July 11, 2025, and defendants’ expert reports are due by August 22, 2025. Science Day for these specific injuries is set for June 20, 2025.
These updates do not affect other claims currently under pretrial management orders, including those involving kidney cancer, testicular cancer, ulcerative colitis, and thyroid disease. These cases continue to move forward according to previously established timelines outlined in CMO 26F and 26G.
Ulcerative Colitis: Discovery Pool Expands
In another key development, on March 18, 2025, three additional plaintiffs were added to the ulcerative colitis discovery pool. These individuals join others whose cases will undergo detailed fact discovery.
The goal is to determine whether their claims will proceed to bellwether trials, which serve as test cases for the broader MDL. Bellwether trials are crucial because they help shape settlement expectations.
If a few of these cases result in favorable verdicts for plaintiffs, it may prompt the defendants to come to the table with a serious settlement offer.
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Recent Surge in Filings: Why the Spike?
In recent months, the AFFF MDL has seen its most significant increase in filings in nearly a year. Here’s a breakdown of what’s been happening:
- February 2025: 338 new lawsuits filed
- January 2025: 459 new lawsuits filed
- December 2024: 270 new lawsuits filed
This spike comes on the heels of a brief decline in late 2023, when settlements in water contamination claims led to a drop in the overall case count. However, that lull was short-lived. The main factor behind the recent rise? Rumors of a global settlement.
Whenever settlement talks intensify, attorneys often scramble to file claims before a potential cut-off date is established. Many fear missing out on compensation if they wait too long.
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Are We Nearing a Settlement?
As of early 2025, many legal professionals believe we are in the “final stretch” of this high-stakes litigation.
Law firms are working quickly to determine which cases have the necessary documentation—such as medical records and product identification—to stand up in court or be included in a mass settlement.
Key Signs That a Settlement May Be Approaching:
- Rapid increase in case filings
- Growing focus on expert discovery
- Intensified scrutiny of product usage and exposure
- Law firms urging clients to file before it’s too late
- Behind-the-scenes negotiations reported among major stakeholders
If a settlement is reached, there may be little to no warning before the window to file a claim closes. Legal professionals are advising anyone who believes they’ve been harmed by AFFF exposure to act quickly.
What’s Next for Plaintiffs?
Here’s what those involved in or considering joining the AFFF litigation should know:
- June 20, 2025: Science Day focused on thyroid and liver cancers
- July 11, 2025: Deadline for plaintiffs to submit expert reports
- August 22, 2025: Deadline for defense expert reports
- Discovery is ongoing: Especially for ulcerative colitis, kidney cancer, and thyroid disease cases
For many, the clock is ticking. With the possibility of a comprehensive settlement on the horizon, anyone who suspects that AFFF exposure caused their illness should consult an attorney as soon as possible.
Get Help From DeMay Law Offices If You’ve Been Harmed By AFFF Foam
So, what is the status of the AFFF foam litigation? The AFFF firefighting foam litigation continues to move forward at a rapid pace, with nearly 9,000 cases now pending in the federal MDL. The legal process is in a critical phase, with expert discovery underway and pressure mounting on both sides to resolve claims.
While nothing is guaranteed, all signs suggest that a global settlement may be closer than ever. That means individuals who may have a claim should not delay; contact our team at DeMayo Law Offices for information about eligibility and more. We provide exceptional customer service for impacted people like you.
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