COLLECTIVE ACTION- But how does the "class action"? The possibility of "collective actions for damages' is not required in our system, while the instrument is very popular in other countries of Europe and the United States. The class action is a procedural tool that allows a plurality of persons seeking to enforce a right - Be they consumers or users of a given service - to appeal to the court with a single cause the results of which reflect on the whole category. The standard approved by the Senate provides for the extension of the audience of persons who may initiate the action, compared with 16 associations of the National Council members and consumers who had power under the Bersani Bill, currently before the House Judiciary Committee. The goal is not to defeat the possibility of action for claims for damages to the other carriers of collective interests. Further associations standing to be identified by decree of the Minister of Justice, in consultation with the Minister of Development Economic, after hearing the competent parliamentary committees.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION - The class action was already pending in the previous legislature because the bill was approved by the House of Representatives July 21, 2004. At that approval, however, did not follow that of the Senate. And the warrant is still outstanding. Among the great battles won in other countries through the class action are, for example, major litigation against the tobacco multinationals or against the Company that the Pacific Gas and contaminated groundwater in a California town, causing tumors to residents, which was obtained substantial compensation. 'The rights of consumers will be increasingly intertwined public health, safety and environment, "said Legambiente.
