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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 8-K
CURRENT REPORT
Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported) October 29, 1999
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BECTON, DICKINSON AND COMPANY
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(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
New Jersey 001-4802 22-0760120
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(State or other juris- (Commission (IRS Employer Iden-
diction of incorporation) File Number) tification Number)
1 Becton Drive, Franklin Lakes, New Jersey 07417-1880
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(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code (201) 847-6800
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N/A
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(Former name or former addresses if changed since last report.)
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Item 5. OTHER EVENTS
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In the matter of Calvin vs. Becton, Dickinson and Company, et. al. (Case No.
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342-173329-98, Tarrant County District Court), filed in Texas state court on
April 9, 1998, the Court has advised the parties by letter received October 27,
1999 that it believes that it is appropriate to address the issues in the case
by way of a class action under Texas procedural law. The Court has further
indicated that its determination is only the "first hurdle" and that it would be
helpful for the parties' counsel to meet with the Court to detail the wording of
an order.
Becton, Dickinson and Company continues to oppose class action certification
in this case and will continue vigorously to defend this matter.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
BECTON, DICKINSON AND COMPANY
(Registrant)
By: /s/ Bridget M. Healy
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Bridget M. Healy
Vice President and Secretary
Date: October 29, 1999
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