Juul Users Receive Thousands in Class Action Lawsuit Payouts, Sparking Social Media Trend

In a surprising turn of events, many users of Juul e-cigarettes are receiving significant payouts as part of a $300 million class action settlement. The lawsuit, which accused Juul and its 35% stakeholder Altria of deceiving consumers about the addictive nature and health risks of their products, as well as improperly marketing to minors, has led to payments ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

The payouts are a result of two settlements: Juul’s $255 million agreement and Altria’s $45 million contribution, which were approved earlier this year. By March, over 14 million claims had been submitted, with around 842,000 eligible customers undergoing the verification process. Claimants who did not provide receipts for their purchases were limited to a compensation of $300.

The news of these payouts has sparked a trend on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, where users are sharing their experiences and the amounts they received. For example, Drewe Raimi, a 23-year-old who filed a claim as a college senior, received a Venmo payment of nearly $3,500 and shared her surprise on TikTok. Similar stories are emerging, with users expressing both joy and surprise at the unexpected funds.

For some, like Kevin Lanning, a 39-year-old who developed a vaping addiction after trying a Juul at an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, the settlement is a poignant reminder of a habit they have since quit. Lanning, now sober, shared his experience and the $1,093.74 payment he received on TikTok.

The settlement funds, which total around $202 million after fees, taxes, and contingencies, are being distributed among eligible claimants. The exact average payout amount has not been disclosed, but it varies based on the number of purchase receipts provided by each claimant.

This development is part of a broader discussion on the health implications and marketing regulations surrounding e-cigarettes in the United States. Despite the FDA rescinding an earlier ban on Juul products in June, the company’s products remain under scrutiny pending further health studies and legal reviews.