Microsoft Settles with State of Arkansas

Following similar settlements in California and Wisconsin, an Arkansas court said Monday it had begun to issue notices regarding a proposed settlement against Microsoft. If approved, it would mean nearly $37.8 million in payments to businesses and consumers.

Microsoft has been accused of breaking state laws regarding antitrust, consumer protection, and competition through the overcharging for its Windows operating system, word processing and spreadsheet software. The court has not ruled on the merits of the suit, and Microsoft denies that it did anything wrong, despite agreeing to settle.

Current and former Arkansans who either directly or indirectly purchased Microsoft software between January 1, 1998 and December 31, 2004 would be eligible. Payment would come in the form of vouchers to be used as payment for computer equipment and software, regardless of manufacturer.

One-half of the unredeemed vouchers would go to schools in low-income areas, while the other half would be distributed to the Arkansas Department of Education, the court said in a statement.

A hearing has been scheduled for March 6, 2007 to approve the settlement. Class action members will have until February 15 to object and February 20 to be excluded from the settlement. Final deadline for the claims would be April 23, 2007 or 30 days after the settlement receives final approval

Those wishing to learn more about the suit or request claim forms can either call a toll free number, 1-800-572-0455, or vist microsoftarsuit.com to get more information.