The Montana Supreme Court ruled largely in favor of roughly 1,200 plaintiffs Wednesday that say BNSF railway should be held liable for its part in contaminating Libby with asbestos. But, the court didn’t outline exactly what activities the railway could be held liable for, and to what extent.

The Supreme Court found that federal regulations for railways and hazardous materials did not shield BNSF from some liability for the environmental disaster. The court unanimously ruled that the company must accept some responsibility and not completely point the finger at former vermiculite mine owner WR Grace. The ruling reaffirms a previous decision from the Libby Asbestos Court. Read more.…