Judge to decide whether to toss SC cruise lawsuit

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — A state judge appointed by the South Carolina Supreme Court will hear arguments next month on whether to toss out a lawsuit challenging Charleston’s expanded cruise industry.

Circuit Judge Clifton Newton of Kingstree met with attorneys for two hours Thursday — a year and a day after the filing of the lawsuit that has attracted national attention.

Newton was appointed as a special referee. Attorneys representing the plaintiffs said he should give them permission to gather more evidence in the case. Attorneys for the defendants, including the State Ports Authority, told the judge court rules only allow him to decide motions.

Opponents sued last June saying the cruises cause congestion and pollution. They want the court to block construction of a new state cruise terminal.