Asbestos-Only Judge Proposed in Libby, Montana

HELENA, Mont. - State Republican legislative leaders are supporting a senate bill (S.282) that would temporarily add a second district judge in state court in Libby, Mont., to exclusively hear asbestos claims.

'The intent of this bill is to expedite victims' claims through the judicial system,' said Sen. Bill Crismore (R-Libby).

Montana Senate President Tom Beck (R-Deer Lodge), House Speaker Dan McGee (R-Laurel) and Senate Majority Leader Fred Thomas (R-Stevensville) join Crismore in supporting the bill.

In a GOP-controlled legislature, the bill's passage is almost certain, the lawmakers said.

More than 80 cases against W.R. Grace & Co. are …