Published January 13, 2015
A federal judge has refused a request to set aside a $102 million tobacco settlement payment to help Tennessee balance its cash-strapped budget.
Attorneys for two Tennessee smokers asked that this year's payment be held in an escrow account until a larger lawsuit over tobacco-related injuries was resolved.
In denying that request, the judge agreed with government officials who said if the state didn't receive this year's payment, it could lead to a fiscal emergency.
The smokers said people treated for tobacco-related injuries under the state's health care program for the poor and uninsured should be compensated before the state gets any settlement money.
https://www.foxnews.com/story/judge-allows-tennessee-to-use-tobacco-funds-for-budget