Declarations

Toyota Claims Setback

“Application of California law to a nationwide class, at least in some instances, would drastically expand the scope of relief available to plaintiffs (to the detriment of Toyota).”

—U.S. District Judge James Selna, who said Toyota owners outside California who seek to recover losses in their vehicles’ value resulting from unintended acceleration cannot pursue their claims under that state’s laws. His ruling is a setback for the owners, because California consumer protection laws would give them a better chance than most states’ laws to recover on their “economic loss” claims. (Reuters)

Cyber Security

“In 2010, an estimated 55,000 new viruses, worms, spyware and other threats were bombarding the Internet daily. Our economy depends on the ability of companies to provide trusted, secure services online. As new cyber-security threats evolve, it’s critical that we develop policies that better protect businesses and their customers.”

—U.S. Commerce Department Secretary Gary Locke noting that companies using the Internet to do business should adhere to a code of conduct to reduce hacking and online theft. With online transactions estimated at $10 trillion globally each year and growing, the threat of online theft has also grown, the department said. (Reuters)

Balancing a Budget

“Current economic conditions have necessitated difficult decisions by the state to balance an already precarious budget. The reduction-in-force in state government has reduced services to the public and has also had an adverse effect on the efficiency and effectiveness of certain key operational areas. Funding reductions have also affected the state’s ability to provide services to those who are most vulnerable to setbacks during this time of economic uncertainty, and have affected the state’s ability to fuel and sustain an economic recovery.”

—Hawaii legislators on their decision to appropriate $42 million from the state’s Hurricane Reserve Trust Fund help balance the state budget for fiscal year 2011.

Topics California Cyber