Tobacco Giants Seek Extension on Suspension of Legal Proceedings

Companies aim to maintain status quo as they negotiate a multi-billion dollar settlement with creditors and class-action members.

JTI-Macdonald Corp., Rothmans, Benson & Hedges, and Canada Ltd. are requesting an extension of the stay of proceedings until March 2025.
The hearing for the extension has been postponed to October 31, with the current stay extended until that date.
The suspension of legal proceedings was first granted in early 2019 after the companies lost an appeal in a landmark Quebec case.
Health advocacy groups express concerns about delays and lack of public information, fearing a missed opportunity for regulatory measures.
The companies were ordered to pay over $15 billion to about 100,000 Quebecers in two class-action lawsuits involving smokers who fell ill or became addicted between 1950 and 1998.