Settlement Will Benefit Consumers and Montana Schools
The Meloy law firm of Helena, lead counsel for a proposed class of Montana consumers, and Microsoft Corp. jointly announced today that a settlement has been reached in a class action lawsuit alleging that Microsoft Corp. violated Montana's antitrust and unfair competition laws.
The settlement, which received preliminary approval from the Montana First District Court on March 25, will provide up to $12.3 million to class members in the form of vouchers that may be used to buy any manufacturer's desktop, laptop and tablet computers, any software used with those computer products, and specified peripheral devices for use with computers.
Microsoft will donate one-half of any unclaimed settlement proceeds to Montana's most needy public schools in the form of vouchers that may be used to purchase a broad range of hardware products, Microsoft® and non-Microsoft software, and professional development services.
The company estimates that 325 schools, serving more than 38,325 students, will be eligible to receive assistance. This represents nearly one quarter of all Montana students.
Mike Meloy, attorney for the plaintiffs, said, "This settlement benefits Montana consumers, businesses and schools. We are proud to have achieved this result."
"I am delighted that a significant portion of Microsoft settlement will directly benefit Montana school children," said Linda McCulloch, state superintendent of the Montana Office of Public Instruction. "All our schools are facing daunting budget problems. This settlement is most welcome and will be put to good use in classrooms across Montana."
News source: Microsoft PressPass
