On August 28, 2001, the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation designated the Western District of Washington as the transferee court for all individual, consumer class, and other federal cases arising out of the sale or use of over-the-counter cough/cold and appetite suppressant products containing phenylpropanalomine ("PPA") for pre-trial consolidation and coordination.
This case, also known as the "Boldt Fishing Case," arose in 1970 from disputes among local Native American tribes and the State of Washington over tribal fishing rights. Judge Boldt ruled that the tribes and the State have equal access to the fisheries and equal responsibility for maintaining them. The U.S. District Court has continuing jurisdiction over disputes arising in this case.