JPML Refuses to Vacate Transfer Orders Issued in 12 Talcum Powder Cases; Says Jurisdictional Objections Not ‘Sufficient Reason to Deny Transfer’

WASHINGTON, D.C. –– The U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation has denied motions to vacate transfer orders in 12 talcum powder lawsuits, opining that “jurisdictional objection is not, as a general matter, a sufficient reason to delay or deny transfer.”

In the Feb. 2 order, the JPML further opined that it lacked the authority to assess the validity of the grounds asserted for removal.

The panel heard arguments regarding the opposition of transfer at its Jan. 26 hearing; the objections had been lodged by plaintiffs bringing claims in Illinois, Missouri, and Pennsylvania.

The oppositions were filed in Illinois case …