June 4, 2001
Blockbuster and consumer attorneys have reached a proposed $500 million settlement in a class action case regarding Blockbuster's "extended viewing" and non-return fees.
The settlement includes certificates for free "Blockbuster Favorites" video rentals, $1 discount certificates and rent-one-get-one-free certificates for customers who paid between extended viewing fees between April 1, 1999 and April 1, 2001. The number of certificates to be issued will depend on how much an individual consumer paid in extended viewing fees.
The case, Kim Ann Scott vs. Blockbuster, was filed in Jefferson County District Court, Beaumont, Texas, charging breach of contract and unjust enrichment. Similar suits were filed in Michigan and in Harrison County, Texas. Similar settlements are pending in those cases.
The total value of the settlement was estimated at $500 million, based on the face value of the certificates to be issued to consumers.
Consumers covered by the proposed settlement do not have to take any action. When the court approves the settlement, certificates will be issued during a 120-day period. Complete details are available at www.blockbuster.com. Click the button reading "EVF Litigation."
Similar suits are pending in several other jurisdictions including Illinois, California, Delaware, Ohio, Maryland, Texas, Tennessee, New Jersey, Washington, D.C., New York, Florida, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania.
The Beaumont case is being handled by Buchanan, Burke & Tinney of Dallas.
