News In Brief
The Supreme Court agreed to hear a dispute over state limits on cigarette advertising. At issue are regulations in Massachusetts - which were upheld by a federal appeals court - restricting the display of tobacco ads near schools and playgrounds, as well as in retail stores. Cigarettemakers argue the regulations violate constitutional free-speech protections and that the limits are preempted by federal standards on tobacco advertising.
Trans World Airlines, once a world leader in commercial flying, will declare bankruptcy as part of a deal with American Airlines, published reports said. American plans to purchase all of TWA's liabilities and dwindling assets, including 185 jets. The St. Louis-based carrier's 20,000 workers will continue to be employed, but its name is expected to be retired. The deal is meant to position American competitively following the $4.3 billion proposed union between United Airlines, the nation's largest carrier, and US Airways. The American takeover, in addition, reportedly will include a deal with a smaller carrier that could ease antitrust concerns that have arisen about the United merger.
A settlement was announced for what would have been the first lawsuit against Bridgestone/ Firestone and Ford to go to trial since millions of tires were recalled. The case, brought by a Texas woman who was paralyzed after an accident involving the tires, had been scheduled for jury selection today. Financial terms weren't disclosed, but Donna Bailey had been seeking $100 million. As many as 200 lawsuits have been filed against Firestone and Ford over tire-related crashes.
As time ran short for him to help Israelis and Palestinians reach a peace deal, President Clinton went public with the framework he has presented to the two sides. Speaking at the Israeli Policy Forum in New York, Clinton said his proposal would give Gaza and most of the West Bank to the Palestinians. But Palestinian refugees would be denied a "right of return" to Israel. His plan also would create an international force to provide border security and would give the Palestinians control of Arab areas in Jerusalem. (Related opinion, page 9.)
Sen. John McCain (R) elaborated on the prospects for his campaign finance reform bill, which he wants the Senate to consider shortly after George W. Bush's inauguration. Appearing on several television talk shows Sunday, the Arizona lawmaker said he believed there were 60 votes to break any filibustering, which in recent years blocked consideration of the legislation. McCain also hinted he might make Bush's Cabinet nominees part of the equation - by linking his support for them to Bush's readiness to back the reform bill.
Michael Clarke Duncan, an actor in 'The Green Mile,' shows off two People's Choice prizes the movie won. The awards program, held Sunday in Pasadena, Calif., also recognized Mel Gibson, Julia Roberts, and "ER." Honors for the People's Choice are determined by Gallup polling and are the first of the year's entertainment awards.
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