Maryland MTBE Claims Against Exxon Mobil, Others Head to Trial

Maryland’s claims in its lawsuit against Exxon Mobil Corp., BP America Inc., and other gasoline companies over alleged water contamination can proceed, except for one claim where the state essentially changed its mind, a federal court in the state ruled Wednesday.

The state Environment Department issued a final closure letter to 41 remediation sites. The letter said the sites complied with Maryland’s Environmental Article related to water pollution control and abatement. The state reversed its position by alleging a violation of the EA at the closed sites, according to the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. ...