Summary Judgment Efforts by Premises Defendants in Asbestos Case Denied; Court Says Motions ‘Premature’

PROVIDENCE, R.I. –– A Rhode Island court has denied efforts by two hospital defendants to dismiss asbestos claims asserted against them, ruling that until a discovery dispute is resolved, the motion is premature.

In the Jan. 15 order, the Rhode Island Superior Court opined that the subject of the discovery dispute –– contracts entered into between the hospitals and contractors –– allegedly detail the use of asbestos, which could potentially support their claims against the premises defendants.

The plaintiffs contend that Leonard Lepore was exposed to asbestos while working at the properties of Rhode Island Hospital and Miriam Hospital. …