UnitedHealth settles SEC Options suit

UnitedHealth Group Inc. settled a Securities and Exchange Commission civil lawsuit over alleged stock-options backdating. The company's former General Counsel agreed to a $575,000 penalty in the case; he also will repay $1.4 million in gains and $347,211 in prejudgment interest. UnitedHealth, one of the largest U.S. health insurers, has not admitted or denied the allegations. The SEC didn't seek a penalty from UnitedHealth. The settlements require court approval.