Bensalem to sue pharma companies over opioid crisis

BENSALEM TWP., Pa. (WPVI) -- Leaders in Bensalem Township, Bucks County are taking another step in fighting the opioid epidemic.

They are planning to sue at least six big-name pharmaceutical companies and their subsidiaries, including Johnson & Johnson, Purdue Pharma, Teva Pharmaceuticals and Endo Health Solutions.

The township says the companies spent years creating the impression that the drugs are safe treatments for pain.

Mayor Joe DiGirolamo is leading the way with plans for a lawsuit in the works.

"We are actually hiring counsel to go after these companies that manufacture and deliver these opioids," he said. "This crisis is not getting better."

The mayor says no taxpayer money is being used in this legal battle.

In addition to the lawsuit, Bensalem Police have stepped up their own efforts to combat the epidemic.

They are working close with prevention programs and treatment centers.

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