Today in the News, 3.6.09

  • “The idea that corporations are shielded from state liability claims by federal rules is relatively new and was pushed aggressively under the Bush administration.” AP reports (as the NY Times hasextensively) that Democrats in Congress are introducing a bill that would overturn the Supreme Court’s major preemption ruling last year in Riegel v. Medtronic.
  • “They are running around like a lot of headless chickens.” Rep. John Dingell (D-MI) offers a rather gloomy depiction of the FDA in an article from Newsday about how federal drug regulators are foundering under a lack of resources, illustrating exactly why this week’s Wyeth decision was necessary (h/t Kia Franklin at Tort Deform). Also, more interesting debate on Wyeth, in support of and opposition to the decision, in USA Today.
  • “I had one [letter] that said, ‘I don’t agree with any of your opinions, but I hope you get well soon.'” Lastly, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg speaks out about recovering from surgery for cancer, and her desire to remain on the Court for several more years. (USA Today)

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