Proof of Economic Loss Due to Asbestos Not Necessary for Payment from Fund

DETROIT - The Michigan Supreme Court has reversed a decision rendered late last year by the state court of appeals, which had required Chrysler Corp. to show evidence that asbestos was a real economic threat before the auto maker could seek reimbursement for damages it had paid for asbestos-related injuries. Alston v. Chrysler Corp., No. 118132 (Mich. Sup. Ct.).

In a short decision issued June 12, the state high court said that in lieu of granting leave to appeal the appellate court's Nov. 3, 2000, decision, it would reverse the decisions of both the appeals court and the workers compensation …