Reno Doubts U.S. Can Sue Tobacco Firms

U.S. Atty. Gen. Janet Reno voiced skepticism about the legal ability of the federal government to file suit against tobacco companies to recover costs incurred under federal health programs. Reno made her comments at a Senate hearing after five Democratic senators told her in a letter that the tobacco industry should reimburse the U.S. for $20 billion a year in health-care costs. Although Reno promised to review the letter, she said Justice Department officials previously concluded that a federal lawsuit against tobacco companies wasn’t a viable option. “We have determined it’s the states’ cause of action,� Reno said. The attorney general’s comments raised doubts about the possibility that the U.S. would follow the lead of 25 states suing to recoup the cost of treating tobacco-related illnesses through government programs--a move that would subject tobacco firms to additional liability. Meanwhile, Ohio’s attorney general said the state will file next week a lawsuit against Philip Morris Cos., RJR Nabisco Holdings Corp. and other cigarette producers. Attorneys general for Missouri and Nevada also are preparing suits. The state of California has not sued but several municipalities, including Los Angeles County, have.