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CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) -- The South Carolina Supreme Court is being asked to hear a case challenging the expanding cruise business in Charleston.

Carnival Cruise Lines, the city of Charleston and the State Ports Authority have asked the high court to assume jurisdiction and dismiss the lawsuit challenging the expansion of cruise service.

The lawsuit was filed earlier this year by neighborhood, preservation and environmental groups. The suit alleges Charleston violated its own regulations in allowing the cruise industry to expand.

Carnival and the other defendants say the suit threatens maritime commerce in South Carolina, making it a matter the high court should consider immediately.

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