Oil companies agree to settle MTBE contamination lawsuits

The newspaper's report quoted Scott Summy, an attorney for the plaintiffs, who said covering the cleanup costs for 30 years was a "creative approach" to resolving a matter that involves so many parties. That provision of the settlement removes the threat of litigation over future contaminated wells, he told the Journal.

The AP could not immediately reach the plaintiff's attorneys for comment.

MTBE, or methyl tertiary butyl ether, is a chemical added to gasoline to boost its octane level and cut air pollution. It was first added to gasoline in 1979, but its use declined after it was banned in a number of states.

MTBE has been found in ground water, including in some communities' drinking water supplies. The Environmental Protection Agency said the chemical is a potential human carcinogen at high doses, although it is unclear at what level it poses a health risk.