CVS Pharmacy has reached a settlement with the California Attorney General's Office and Riverside County over allegations of improper disposal of hazardous waste. The settlement, which was announced on Wednesday, requires CVS to pay $6.5 million in penalties and costs. The company has also agreed to implement new procedures to ensure the proper disposal of hazardous waste in the future.
The allegations against CVS arose from an investigation conducted by the California Department of Toxic Substances Control and the Riverside County District Attorney's Office. The investigation found that CVS had improperly disposed of hazardous waste, including batteries, electronic devices, and expired medication, at its stores throughout California. The improper disposal of hazardous waste can have serious environmental and health consequences.
Under the terms of the settlement, CVS has agreed to hire an outside consultant to conduct annual inspections of its California stores to ensure compliance with hazardous waste disposal regulations. The company will also be required to properly train its employees on hazardous waste disposal procedures and to implement an electronic waste recycling program at its California stores. The settlement is a reminder of the importance of proper hazardous waste disposal and the consequences of failing to do so