A federal judge in Trenton, New Jersey, has dismissed a suit seeking to require Johnson & Johnson to arbitrate shareholders suits.

In a blow to the plaintiffs' notions of limiting shareholders' rights to sue public companies, U.S. District Judge Michael Shipp said the suit raises questions that are moot and unripe. The latest ruling marks the second time Shipp has rejected the proposal. He dismissed the case without prejudice in June 2021, but the opportunity to submit an amended complaint didn't seem to make a difference.

U.S. District Judge Michael Shipp of the District of New Jersey. Courtesy photo