Insurers ordered to pay legal fees of asbestos companies facing personal-injury lawsuits.
In 1951, asbestos companies removed all references to cancer before allowing publication of research they sponsored.
Between 1981 and the present, many asbestos companies have filed for bankruptcy.
Insurers have argued injuries were the result of a corporate strategy by asbestos companies that recognized the health risks but continued production regardless.
New York's highest court ruled that insurers are obligated to pay asbestos companies' legal fees in personal injury cases.
The 20 asbestos companies involved in the case vowed to appeal.
The asbestos companies settled or were dismissed from the case.
The nearly 700 "powerhouse" cases had 194 defendants, including property owners and contractors along with asbestos companies.
Since 1982, 26 large asbestos companies have filed for bankruptcy protection.
Six asbestos companies were found negligent by a jury deciding personal injury claims.
