CD Price Fix is in

The five top U.S. distributors of compact discs and three large music retailers have agreed to pay $143 million in cash and CDs to settle charges they cheated consumers by fixing prices. Consumers in all 50 states who bought CDs between 1995 and 2000 can file claims for part of the fund, prosecutors said. Public announcements will be made later to inform consumers how to participate in the payout. The settlement is subject to approval by the United States District Court in Portland, Me., after which consumers will have 90 days to file claims. Details of how consumers who may have discarded any sales receipts can obtain refunds will be announced at that time.