Mass. Court OKs Class Status for Tobacco Suit

Smokers of so-called light cigarettes can pursue a class-action lawsuit against Philip Morris USA based on the claim that the tobacco giant advertised Marlboro Lights as less harmful than other brands, Massachusetts’ highest court ruled.

The Supreme Judicial Court’s 4-3 decision marks the first time any state’s high court has allowed smokers to proceed with a class action against the industry over the marketing of light cigarettes.

Philip Morris said the ruling would have no bearing on similar cases elsewhere.