Minnesota Court dismisses 'Lights' class action Altria and PM USA..

December 7, 2009 - Altria Group, Inc. (Altria) and Philip Morris USA (PM USA) said today that a Minnesota trial court has dismissed in its entirety a 'Lights' class action filed against the companies. The Curtis case had been scheduled for trial in October, 2010.

"We believe the court correctly applied Minnesota law in dismissing the case," said Murray Garnick, Altria Client Services senior vice president and associate general counsel, speaking on behalf of Altria and PM USA.

The case is Curtis v. Altria Group and Philip Morris USA, No. 27-CV-01-18042.

Altria directly or indirectly owns 100% of each of Philip Morris USA (PM USA), U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company (USSTC), John Middleton Co. (Middleton), Ste. Michelle Wine Estates (SMWE), and Philip Morris Capital Corporation. In addition, Altria holds a continuing economic and voting interest in SABMiller plc.

Background: Minnesota Light Cigarette Litigation..

Reference: Minnesota Court Dismisses 'Lights' Class Action, Altria Media Press Release, 12/4/2009.