3M and Aearo plan to continue discussions with Combat Arms Earplugs

Certain plaintiffs in the ongoing Combat Arms Earplugs Version 2 litigation have filed a motion to dismiss Aearo’s bankruptcy filing with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Indianapolis. Aearo and 3M intend to continue to engage in mediation discussions toward a global resolution working with all parties, the mediators, and the courts. The motion to dismiss has no immediate impact on these ongoing efforts to resolve the litigation. Aearo and 3M will remain focused on these discussions and to finding a path forward toward a prompt and complete resolution for all parties while they prepare their written response to the motion and for a future hearing. The facts and circumstances of Aearo and 3M’s efforts to resolve ongoing Combat Arms earplugs litigation are different from those involving the LTL Management case or a "Texas Two-Step". Aearo and 3M will continue to vigorously defend their position regarding this motion, in the multi-district litigation, and in pursuing their appeals. Oral arguments for the appeals of the initial bellwether trials, which include important legal and evidentiary issues, are scheduled to be held during the week of May 1 and could significantly alter the progression and outcome of this litigation.