Auto Maker Must Show Asbestosis Is 'Economic Threat' Before Receiving Benefits from Fund

DETROIT - Actual proof that asbestosis is an economic threat to the automobile industry is required for Chrysler Corp. to receive reimbursement from the Silicosis and Dust Disease Fund for workers' comp benefits paid to an employee suffering from the disease, the Michigan Court of Appeals has determined. Alston v. Chrysler Corp., No. 223923 (Mich. Ct. App.).

The appellate court affirmed a decision of the state Worker's Compensation Appellate Commission (WCAC), which had reversed the magistrate's decision finding that the Silicosis, Dust Disease, Logging Industry Compensation Fund (the Fund) was responsible for paying an asbestosis-suffering employee's benefits under the Worker's …