TOBACCO

Maryland Sues for Health Costs: The state is the ninth to sue the tobacco industry to recover Medicaid costs associated with tobacco-related illnesses. The state seeks $100 million for state Medicaid costs associated with such illnesses for the last 30 years and $10 billion in punitive damages for alleged fraud and deceit by tobacco companies. Maryland also wants to end tobacco advertising targeted at children and inner-city residents. Philip Morris Cos. had no comment. But RJR Nabisco Holdings Corp. spokeswoman Peggy Carter said, “It is very disingenuous of the state to turn around and suggest with a straight face that they are owed still more.” Florida, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Jersey, Texas and West Virginia all have lawsuits pending against the industry.