General Electric Moves to Transfer Venue, Sever Texas Claims

BEAUMONT, Texas -- Defendant General Electric has moved to transfer venue and sever a Texas lawsuit alleging exposure to welding rod fumes and asbestos, arguing that there is no evidence that Jefferson County, Texas is the correct forum for the lawsuit. Benoit, et al. v. J. Ray McDermott, et al., No. A168572 (Texas 58th Dist. Ct., Jefferson Cty.).

Filed Aug. 16 in the Texas 58th District Court for Jefferson County, General Electric also contends that the more than 100 plaintiffs named in the lawsuit have distinct and independent claims, thus warranting severance. The lawsuit involves plaintiffs alleging exposure to both …