Tobacco Stocks Fall on Class Ruling

A federal judge certified a punitive damage class-action lawsuit against tobacco companies, in a decision that could broaden the number of plaintiffs and compensation paid by the industry.

On Thursday, U.S. District Court Judge Jack Weinstein said the class would include of all smokers who have been diagnosed with a variety of illnesses, including lung cancer, emphysema and some forms of heart disease between Apr. 9, 1993 and a time when the class is to be notified of the certification.

The class excludes smokers who have already gotten judgments or settlements against the industry. ...