PITTSBURGH — A judge has refused to dismiss a lawsuit in the fatal mauling death of a 2-year-old boy who fell into a wild African dogs exhibit at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.

Zoo attorneys argued a strict liability claim should not go forward, saying there's no “abnormal risk to the public” when people have a chance to view wild animals.

But Allegheny County Judge Paul Lutty agreed with attorneys for Jason and Elizabeth Derkosh that the risk can't be determined until both sides exchange evidence before trial.

The couple is seeking unspecified damages in the Nov. 4 death of their son, Maddox, who fell over a wooden railing after his mother lifted him up to get a better look at the dogs.

HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania is about to replace its GED diploma exam with a new test that’s considered to be tougher and a better way to measure college and career preparation.The Department of Education announced Wednesday the 2002 Series test will expire at the end of December, so people who have not completed all five parts have until then to do so.If not, they’ll have to start from the beginning with the 2014 Series test in January to get a high school credential.It’ll consist of four parts and will only be available in a computer format.