Judge Stops Lawsuits Against Detroit Bankruptcy

A federal judge has put a stop to lawsuits threatening Detroit's bankruptcy and declared that he will handle any challenges.

The decision Wednesday after two hours of arguments is a victory for Detroit. A county judge last week said Gov. Rick Snyder ignored the Michigan Constitution and acted illegally in approving the Chapter 9 filing, the largest ever U.S. municipal bankruptcy.

Retirees sued, claiming their pensions are protected by the constitution and are at risk in a bankruptcy.

U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Steven Rhodes suspended any pending lawsuits and barred new ones. He says his court will be the exclusive venue for any legal action regarding the bankruptcy.

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