Judge Says Texas Medical Criteria Law Effective, Supports Review

AUSTIN, Texas - The Texas Silica MDL judge has weighed in on the state's five-year-old medical criteria statute, suggesting that the measure is achieving its stated purpose by giving priority to claimants with current physical impairment, but noted that a review of the statute in light of advances in medical science and technology may be warranted. In re: Texas State Silica Products Liability Litigation, No. 2004-70000 (Texas Dist. Ct., Harris Cty.).

Judge Joseph J. "Tad" Halbach Jr. submitted the comments in a report to the state legislature, as required under the statute that created the silica MDL and subsequent measure …