Judge gives early OK to deal on Flint water

DETROIT — A judge granted preliminary approval Thursday to a $641 million deal that would benefit thousands of Flint residents who were harmed by lead-contaminated water.

The settlement includes $600 million from the state of Michigan; Flint, an area hospital and an engineering company are also part of the agreement. U.S. District Judge Judith Levy signed off in a 72-page opinion.

Preliminary approval triggers a process in which Flint residents can object and pursue their own claims, Levy said. They will have until March 29 to register to participate.