April 2008

U.S. Water News Online

GREEN BAY, Wis. -- A jury says nine insurance companies should cover $550 million to $730 million of the costs assessed to the former Appleton Papers Incorporated for cleanup of the industrial chemical PCBs in the Lower Fox River.

After a five-week trial, the jury took just four hours to determine the insurance polices covered property damage caused by the discharge of the industrial chemical pollutant into the river.

Columbia Casualty Co. of Chicago sued in 2005, claiming its policy did not cover PCB damage and that the paper company didn't give the insurance company timely notice it was responsible for cleanup costs.

Eight other insurance companies joined the lawsuit.

Appleton Papers Incorporated changed its name and logo in 2003 to Appleton.

The decision is expected to be appealed.