An Ohio federal judge has certified a “negotiating class” for settlements between opioid drugmakers and over 2,000 local governments.

The framework responds to requests from the plaintiffs as opioid manufacturers, including Purdue Pharma, are seeking to settle cases across the country related to the opioid crisis.

The class can negotiate settlements with any of the named defendants based on any claims stated in their suit or based on the suit. None of the cities, towns or drugmakers are required to negotiate settlements through the process.