U.S. Decision to Settle Tobacco Lawsuit Sparks Concern June 21, 2001
News Summary
Health advocates, lawmakers, and tobacco companies are voicing their opinions regarding the Justice Department's recent announcement that it would consider settling the government's lawsuit against the tobacco industry, the Associated Press reported June 20.Some health advocates are concerned that the Bush administration, fearful that their case is not a strong one, may not seek a solid settlement agreement. Last year, U.S. District Judge Gladys Kessler dismissed two counts of the lawsuit, which seeks to recover expenses associated with sick smokers.
"No good-faith negotiator would settle their litigation by announcing at the beginning that they might lose," said William Corr, executive vice president of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.
John Garrison, chief executive officer of the American Lung Association, added that the Bush administration should not enter a settlement that would protect tobacco makers from future lawsuits. "Under no circumstances should the Bush administration consider granting immunity or limits on liability to the tobacco industry," Garrison said.
Tobacco companies, who feel the lawsuit is without merit in the first place, are not that supportive of a settlement. "We will not settle this lawsuit for any amount of money," said Seth Moskowitz, a spokesman for R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.
This week, a team of lawyers appointed by Attorney General John Ashcroft met with the Justice Department's tobacco litigation team regarding a potential settlement.
The majority of lawmakers from tobacco states oppose the lawsuit. "The story the Justice Department leaked today that it is seeking to settle its lawsuit against the tobacco companies is quite curious," said Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-N.C.), a tobacco farmer. "The department says it wants to settle because it is afraid it will lose. I agree. The administration should end this meritless lawsuit immediately."
COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE: