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Chinese Drywall Maker Challenges Judge's Ruling

A three-judge panel from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans didn't indicate how soon it would rule after hearing arguments Wednesday by lawyers for Taishan Gypsum Co. Ltd. and a group of Virginia homeowners who sued the foreign company.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) -- A Chinese drywall manufacturer has asked a federal appeals court to overturn a judge's ruling that U.S. courts have jurisdiction over claims that its defective product wrecked thousands of homes.

A three-judge panel from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans didn't indicate how soon it would rule after hearing arguments Wednesday by lawyers for Taishan Gypsum Co. Ltd. and a group of Virginia homeowners who sued the foreign company.

Company attorney Joe Cyr argued there is no evidence that Taishan knew its drywall would be used in Virginia, but two of the judges on the panel sounded skeptical.

Judge Catharina Haynes said it appears the company wanted to make money in the U.S. without having to be accountable for any harm its product caused.

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