Prosecutors say Wal-Mart Stores Inc. has agreed to pay $27.6 million to settle claims of improperly handling and dumping hazardous waste at locations across California.
San Diego County District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis announced the settlement Monday involving more than 20 prosecutors and environmental agencies.
She called the settlement one of the largest of its type in the United States.
Dumanis says Wal-Mart employees were caught illegally storing and dumping hazardous waste at 236 stores and distributions centers across California.
She says the settlement ends a five-year investigation by federal, state and local officials.
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