Earlier this month, Butte, Montana residents were advised not to drink their tap water after mine water from Montana Resources was discovered in the city’s municipal supply. The contamination, reported on August 13, was caused by an over-pressurization event that forced processed mine water through a cross-connection into the municipal system. This allowed high levels of calcium, sulfates, and potentially harmful bacteria to enter the drinking supply, raising concerns about both health risks and long-term damage to household plumbing and appliances.
In response, a group of residents filed a proposed class-action lawsuit in Butte-Silver Bow District Court against Montana Resources, a subsidiary of Washington Companies. The plaintiffs seek compensatory and punitive damages, citing the costs of bottled water, potential health impacts, and property damage.
District Court Judge Frank Joseph will decide if the case qualifies as a class action. If approved, it could set the stage for significant accountability in how corporations manage environmental and community safety.
This blog is intended to provide information to the general public and to practitioners about developments that may impact Oregon class actions.
