A Monterey County judge ordered Tuesday the parent company of T.J. Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods to pay $2.8 million in penalties related to environmental violations.
A total of 38 California counties sued the Massachusetts-based corporation known as TJX Companies for dumping hazardous pollutants at its stores throughout the state.
Santa Barbara County District Attorney Joyce Dudley says the settlement "marks a victory for the environment and should also serve as a strong message to other companies and individuals that engage in illegal disposal practices."
The county will receive $9,500 in civil penalties and fees associated with the settlement based on the number of stores in the area, according to Santa Barbara County Chief Deputy District Attorney Kelly Scott.
As of this posting, KCBX had not received word from the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney's office on whether any settlement money will make it there as well.