Punitive Damages Allowed in Tobacco Suit

Major tobacco companies will face a claim for punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages in a Minnesota trial that begins in two weeks, a judge ruled. The state of Minnesota may seek the damages, which are not automatically allowed in Minnesota courts, in addition to compensatory damages in its case seeking reimbursement for public spending on health care for smokers. Minnesota Atty. Gen. Hubert Humphrey III said in a statement that he was pleased with the decision by Ramsey County District Judge Kenneth Fitzpatrick. His office declined to comment on the amount of compensatory or punitive damages that may be sought.