N.Y. Federal Judge Refuses to Transfer $2.1 Million Action to Connecticut

NEW YORK - A New York federal judge has refused to transfer a $2.1 million dispute over reinsurance for a 2007 settlement of asbestos exposure claims, ruling that the plaintiff and the underlying transaction have a "strong connection" to New York. White Mountains Reinsurance Company of America v. Travelers Casualty and Surety Co., No. 11-390 (S.D. N.Y.).

On April 14, Judge Denise Cote of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York rejected defendant Travelers Casualty and Surety Co.'s assertion that this action was "a preemptive suit for declaratory relief."

Travelers' predecessor issued primary and excess liability …