Williams found that oil companies could be liable for statements made by front groups they funded and controlled. Which accountability principle does this establish?

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Williams established that companies can face liability for deception by front groups they "funded, controlled, and participated in" even when not making direct statements. This principle prevents corporations from hiding behind nominally independent organizations while coordinating their messaging. BP and other defendants argued they couldn't be liable for trade association statements, but the court found sufficient evidence of control and coordination to let a jury decide. This accountability framework prevents corporate shell games where companies fund deceptive campaigns while claiming legal immunity through organizational separation.

Williams found that oil companies could be liable for statements made by front groups they funded and controlled. Which accountability principle does this establish?

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