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WARNING: This site deals only with the corporate corruption of science, and makes no inference about the motives or activities of individuals involved.
    There are many reasons why individuals become embroiled in corporate corruption activities - from political zealotry to over-enthusiastic activism; from gullibility to greed.
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Shannon Ratliffe    

The main legal lobby firm retained by the tobacco industry to support its product liability reform efforts in Texas. They are employed through Covington & Burling, the tobacco industry's main Washington law firm, and they support the fake Texas Civil Justice League (TCJL).

PRELIMINARY MATERIAL ONLY

1992 Nov 20: This is a Covington & Burling memo about the future operations of the Texas Civil Justice League (TCJL) who have been set up by the tobacco industry to fight product liability laws (as the industry's contribution towards the tort-reform coaltion).

    They have been consulting the cigarette company's political advisors and have met with the TCJL lobby team. The memo lists the lobby team and their rates of payment:


        • Nub Donaldson (Team Leader) $100,000
        • Jack Roberts (Senate Coordinator) $85,000
        • Rusty Kelly (House Coordinator) $85,000
        • Jack Gullahorn $75,000
        • Kraege Polan $75,000
        • Gibb Lewis $75,000
"The amounts listed reflect only the fee arrangements ; no agreement has been reached concerning lobbying expenses.

    The 1993 TCJL budget includes an item for "legal experts" to cover the costs of Texas lawyers who will assist in any negotiations, briefings of legislators, and other matters. It is expected that Shannon Ratliff will serve as TCJL's chief legal adviser, but Shannon will need assistance. The TCJL estimated legal budget for Texas lawyers is $200,000 .

    By way of comparison, the TCJL products liability lobby team was paid approximately $1,130,000 (retainer & expenses) in 1991. Total 1991 expenditures for Texas legal counsel were approximately $373,250.

    There will be other components to the 1993 TCJL budget to cover such items as public communications and grassroots.

    Specific budget figures for these items have not yet been determined.

    We have tentatively agreed, subject to Policy Committee approval, to support TCJL at a level sufficient to cover these project costs."