By pursuing a similar legal strategy to the suits against the tobacco companies, New Orleans and Chicago have filed separate suits against gun manufacturers. The New Orleans suit is based upon its assertion that firearms are unreasonably dangerous because they lack certain mechanical safety devices. Dennis Henigan, HCI's lead attorney, is actively working on this case. The Chicago lawsuit is being brought on the "public nuisance" premise that the gun industry is flooding the city with handguns that they know will be used in crime because Chicago has a virtual ban on handgun ownership. Chicago is seeking $433 million from gun manufacturers and distributors for reimbursement for what the city has spent in the past five years on police, emergency medical care, and other services related to crimes committed with guns. Rest assured we are actively monitoring both suits, and will keep you apprised of any developments. Other cities mulling similar legal actions include Los Angeles and Philadelphia.

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