The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday allowed smokers in Maine to sue the manufacturers of "light" cigarettes for fraud.

In a 5-4 vote, the justices held that the suit was not pre-empted by federal law. The opinion was written by Justice John Paul Stevens, who was joined by the liberal-leaning members of the court.

The smokers are seeking a class action lawsuit, alleging violations of Maine's Unfair Trade Practices Act. They are seeking monetary damages based on the economic rather than medical harm.

Get the Story:
Court Allows Suit Against 'Light' Cigarette Makers (The Washington Post 12/16)
Top Court Lets Smokers Sue for Fraud (The New York Times 12/16)

Supreme Court Decision Altria v. Good:
Syllabus | Opinion [Stevens] | Dissent [Thomas]