Authors of Asbestos X-Ray Screening Study Move to Quash Subpoena in Silica Case

BALTIMORE - Researchers who authored an often-cited analysis of mass X-ray screenings in asbestos cases have filed a motion to quash subpoenas for their depositions in federal silica cases, claiming the study results had nothing to do with silica litigation. In Re: Silica Product Liability Litigation, MDL Docket No. 1553 (D. Md.).

In a motion filed Feb. 3 in U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, the asbestos study's authors argue that they should not be compelled to testify because they are involuntary witnesses who have never been obtained as experts in the silica litigation. The researchers also allege …