Microsoft has settled one of its three remaining US class action lawsuits and agreed to pay out up to US$31.5 million to residents of New Mexico.
The first settlement since June's agreement with the US states of Massachusetts, Arizona, and North Dakota, the deal is similar to earlier settlements with states that had sued the Redmond developer for violations of antitrust and unfair competition laws.
Vouchers will be issued to claim members for discounts on computers, software, and certain peripherals, said Microsoft.
As in other agreements, half of the unclaimed amount will be turned over to New Mexico's public schools for use in purchasing hardware, Microsoft and non-Microsoft software, and professional services such as training. Microsoft can pocket the remaining half of the unclaimed money.
The settlement received preliminary approval 29 July, but on Tuesday the First Judicial District Court for the State of New Mexico finalised the deal. Residents who bought Microsoft operating systems, Office, Word, and Excel between 8 December 1995 and 31 December 2002 are eligible.
Only Iowa's and Wisconsin's class action suits remain unresolved.
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