Specter backs down on the asbestos trust fund subpoenas

So, it appears Specter made an empty threat because now he's decided he's not going to issue subpoenas. Of course, like any politician, he could change his mind.

He could still threaten to pull the bill entirely if the recalcitrant companies are the ones in favor of the trust fund. However, one suspects that the recalcitrant companies actually oppose the trust fund. Or otherwise don't think it's going to pass if they're afraid that disclosing the information Specter wants will lead to more lawsuits. I suspect it's more of the former and hope for the latter.