Home Depot settles with U.S. government

The U.S. Justice Department and Environmental Protection Agency have reached an agreement with Home Depot that will see the Atlanta-based retail giant pay $20 million in fines. Home Depot is accused of sub-contracting to renovation firms that failed to adhere to required norms when removing lead paint, causing dust and paint chips to spread on work sites. The agreed amount is greater than any other fine paid to date under the U.S. Toxic Substances Control Act.