Mississippi joins Volkswagen investigation

The multi-state investigation will examine misrepresentations and deceptions regarding the 11 million diesel vehicles which were allegedly equipped with software that could be used to cheat on emissions tests.

Attorney General Ken Paxton today announced Texas is on the executive committee of the multi-state investigation of German auto manufacturer Volkswagen. Spokeswoman Andrea Bitely says many states will investigate both through their consumer protection and environmental protection divisions.

New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman has also confirmed an investigation. Volkswagen has admitted that it intentionally installed software programmed to switch engines to a cleaner mode during official emissions testing.

At least 482,000 cars are to be recalled and the world’s largest vehicle maker could face penalties of more than $18bn in the United States alone. “We take these allegations, and their potential implications for public health and air pollution in the U.S., very seriously”.

The states will examine ways to compensate vehicle owners and protect against future environmental harm, Maryland attorney general Brian E. Frosh said in an e-mailed statement on Thursday.

A United States law firm said on Wednesday it was suing Volkswagen in a class action lawsuit. The attorney general for Washington, DC, is also included in the group, she said.

Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan is leading a multistate request for information from VW.