ELLIOT SPAGAT
Associated Press
SAN DIEGO (AP) - California and four other states are considering whether to object to a proposed class-action settlement between Honda and car owners over inflated fuel-efficiency claims on the automaker's hybrid vehicles.
San Diego Superior Court Judge Timothy Taylor on Tuesday gave the five state attorneys general until Feb. 29 to declare any opposition to the settlement.
California Deputy Attorney General Albert Shelden tells reporters that his state is undecided on whether to enter the fray. Iowa, Massachusetts, Texas and Washington have also asked more time to consider.
The states' sudden interest in the case comes shortly after Honda owner Heather Peters won a nearly $10,000 judgment against Honda in Los Angeles small-claims court. In contrast, the class-action settlement would give each owner $100 to $200.
(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
