PAULSBORO — Consolidated Rail Corp., owner of the train that derailed in Paulsboro a year ago, has filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit that claims toxic chemicals spilled in the accident caused physical harm to residents and business owners.

The company, known as Conrail, filed the motion Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Camden in the Cynthia Lord vs. Conrail lawsuit which includes 41 plaintiffs.

A spokesman for Conrail would not comment on the motion or the claims against the rail company.

On Nov. 30, seven tanker cars derailed over the Jefferson Street railway bridge, spilling vinyl chloride — a toxic chemical used in making PVC plastics — from one of the derailed cars.

Since the incident, hundreds of borough residents, first responders and Paulsboro business owners have filed lawsuits against Conrail, CSX Transportation Inc. and Norfolk Southern Railway Company.

The latest suit, which includes 27 plaintiffs, was filed against all three companies on Friday.

The newest set of claims resembles the other lawsuits filed since the derailment.

The plaintiffs claim the exposure to vinyl chloride gas, which spread like a foggy cloud throughout the borough, has caused skin irritations, headaches and breathing problems. Some local shop owners are claiming economic losses and decreased business value as a result of the derailment and toxic spill.

This most recent lawsuit asks a judge to establish a medical monitoring program to alert the plaintiffs to potential future health problems caused by the exposure to vinyl chloride. The lawsuit also seeks monetary awards.

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