Settlement Agreement of $398 Million for Poultry Processing Workers Announced

$398 Million Settlement for Poultry Processing Workers

In a significant legal development, Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP, Handley Farah & Anderson PLLC, and Cohen Milstein Sellers & Toll PLLC announced a monumental settlement of $398.02 million regarding the case Jien v. Perdue Farms. The settlement pertains to workers who were employed in the poultry processing industry between the years 2000 and 2021, offering a potential compensation route for those affected.

Background of the Lawsuit

This collective lawsuit arose from allegations made by poultry workers against various major companies in the industry, including Tyson Foods, Perdue Farms, and Cargill Meat Solutions, claiming that they engaged in anticompetitive practices prohibiting fair wage payments. The plaintiffs asserted that these companies conspired to suppress wages across the sector, thereby violating legal standards set to protect workers' rights. Additionally, they argue that Agri Stats, a data analytics firm, contributed to this wage suppression by providing reports that facilitated these unlawful practices. The defendants, however, have denied these allegations across the board.

On June 5, 2025, the courts approved settlements with all the implicated parties except Agri Stats and Webber, Meng, Sahl and Company, who are also mentioned in the suit. Recent developments indicate that Agri Stats has since opted to resolve the outstanding claims against them.

Who is Included?

Individuals who worked in poultry processing, hatcheries, or related plants in the United States during the defined period may be eligible to receive compensation from this settlement. Specifically, any worker employed by the defendants noted above—excluding Agri Stats and Webber, Meng, Sahl and Company—can be classified as a member of the victim group. The lawsuit has garnered interest nationwide as affected employees seek to understand their rights and the potential impact of this agreement on their livelihoods.

What Does the Settlement Entail?

While the settlement does not allocate direct monetary compensation to the affected workers from Agri Stats, it mandates the removal of sensitive employment data from their reports shared with poultry companies. This redaction aims to ensure that the wage manipulation practices do not continue within the industry. Importantly, workers participating in the legal process can still seek compensation pertaining to prior settlements approved before this deal came through.

For those affected, it is essential that they remain informed about the legal proceedings. Members of the group representing the plaintiffs will relinquish the right to file personal claims against Agri Stats if they choose not to contest the settlement terms. Any objections or concerns about the settlement must be raised by January 12, 2026. Subsequently, a court hearing is scheduled for March 10, 2026, to evaluate the settlement’s approval. Workers can attend and speak at their own expense if they wish to contribute to the hearing.

Outreach and Communication

For more assistance and information concerning this case, affected individuals can visit www.PoultryWages.com or contact customer service at 1-877-311-3745. By fostering awareness and understanding around this settlement, the legal teams hope to aid in the fair treatment and resolution for those who have been wronged in the poultry processing sector.

The fighting spirit among the poultry workers signals a crucial stand for worker rights, showcasing the power of collective legal action in an industry often marred by unethical practices. As this case progresses, it will undoubtedly serve as a benchmark for the future landscape of worker treatment in poultry and beyond.