Seven Union Funds’ Lawsuit Is Dismissed

A U.S. District Court judge in Philadelphia dismissed a class-action lawsuit brought by seven union funds against the tobacco industry that sought reimbursement of health-care costs spent treating smokers. U.S. District Judge John Fullam said the unions’ claims that the industry committed fraud were based on a theory “entirely too speculative to be taken seriously.” It’s the second time in two weeks a federal court has rejected claims by union health-care funds that cigarette companies should pay for treating sick smokers. Philip Morris Cos., the world’s largest cigarette company, said Fullam’s verdict affirms its view that it can successfully fight litigation against the industry.