Nathan Stubbs

FEMA wants immunity from toxic trailer suits

by Nathan Stubbs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency says it is not liable for the tens of thousands of trailers, some of which were found to have dangerously high levels of formaldehyde, provided to Gulf coast hurricane victims. Today, the agency goes before U.S. District Judge Kurt Engelhardt in New Orleans seeking dismissal from a series of suits regarding the toxic trailers. The Associated Press reports the agency’s lawyers are arguing that FEMA purchased all of the trailers from contractors under the understanding that the products would be safe and that the law provides the government with clear immunity in such cases. Plaintiffs’ attorneys argue that FEMA actively coordinated efforts with contractors and should, to some extent, be held responsible. Plaintiffs are asking the judge for class action status in the suit.