Merck Seeks Second Legislative Continuance of Feb. 14 Trial After First Attempt Fails

RIO GRANDE, Texas - Merck & Co. filed a motion Jan. 15 for legislative continuance of what would have likely been the first Vioxx injury case in the country to go to trial. The motion was filed after a prior attempt failed when a legislator hired to represent the defendant withdrew a similar motion earlier in the week. Garza v. Heart Clinic, P.A., et al., No. DC-03-84 (Texas Dist. Ct., Starr Cty, 229th Dist.).

According to sources, Merck filed its motion for continuance after hiring Rep. Rene Oliveira to represent the company in a case that has been set for …