Consumer Update: Consumers Encouraged to Register Claims for LCD Products Purchased from 1999 to 2006

Friday, February 24, 2012
Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

SAN FRANCISCO --- California residents who purchased products with LCD panels (computer monitors, laptops, and PCs) from 1999 to 2006 are encouraged to visit a new class action website for information on how to file a claim related to a half billion dollar settlement with manufacturers that engaged in price-fixing.

Consumers are encouraged to visit www.lcdclass.com for more information, and to obtain copies of the settlement agreements and register to receive a claim form. Consumers can also call 855.225.1886 or write: LCD Class, P.O. Box 8025, Faribault, MN, 55021-9425.

In October 2010, Attorney General Kamala D. Harris filed a lawsuit against ten companies for engaging in price fixing of LCD panels from 1999 to 2006 that resulted in higher prices for California residents and businesses, as well as government agencies.

The settlements announced in December 2011 resolve Attorney General Harris’ claims against seven companies, along with those of seven other attorneys general and a national class action. As part of the settlements, the companies that engaged in price fixing will provide a fund for consumers and businesses in 25 states, including California. The settling companies have also resolved claims brought by Attorney General Harris for civil penalties under California’s Unfair Competition Law, as well as restitution for government agencies that purchased the flat screen LCD panels.

Attorney General Harris is joined in these settlements by the attorneys general of Arkansas, Florida, Michigan, Missouri, New York, West Virginia and Wisconsin, as well as a class action brought on behalf of private claimants in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.

Settling defendants include: Chimei Innolux Corp., Chi Mei Optoelectronics USA, Inc., Chi Mei Optoelectronics Japan Co., Ltd, HannStar Display Corporation, Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Displays, Ltd., Hitachi Electronic Devices, USA, Inc., Samsung Electronics, Co., Ltd., Samsung Electronics America, Inc., Samsung Semiconductor, Inc., Sharp Corporation, and Sharp Electronics Corporation.

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