The state of Missouri took legal action against Volkswagen on Monday, ending up being the 17th U.S. state to take legal action against German automaker over emissions scandal.
Independently, U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer on Tuesday in San Francisco is set to hold a hearing on whether to approve last approval to a $10.033 billion settlement with 475,000 owners of 2.0-liter Volkswagen automobiles. The proposed settlement would permit owners to sell back their polluting automobiles or have the automobile repaired if regulators approve.
Late on Monday, Breyer revealed hundreds of pages of objections from owners. Much of them argued that Volkswagen is not using a high enough buyback price for polluting cars or repaying them for some out of pocket expenses, such as prolonged warranties. Most owners will get additional settlement of $5,100 to $10,000 for selling cars back or getting them repaired.
Missouri’s lawsuit contributes to the monetary dangers for Volkswagen from suits submitted by state regulators who are looking for financial penalties in addition to any federal or civil claims the car manufacturer will pay. The 16 other states that have taken legal action against Volkswagen include California, New York, Texas and New Jersey. The state of Washington in July submitted an administrative case against the car manufacturer seeking $176 million.
“Volkswagen’s actions show a flagrant neglect for Missouri’s environmental laws, as well as the health and well-being of Missourians,” Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster said.
In August, Volkswagen consented to hold settlement talks with a minimum of four U.S. states and Washington state starting no behind November 1.
Volkswagen spokesperson Jeannine Ginivan said on Monday the company “is dedicated to reaching a reasonable and effective resolution of remaining federal and state diesel claims in the United States.” She stated the car manufacturer “will review Missouri’s complaint and react appropriately.”
Volkswagen has currently accepted pay a total of $16.7 billion in settlements related to its use of prohibited software to beat U.S. emissions tests. The automaker has reserved 17.8 billion euros ($19.94 billion) cover legal expenses coming from the scandal.
