If you have recently heard about a class action settlement involving Lee Enterprises, you may be eligible for a cash payment. This settlement stems from allegations that the media company shared digital subscriber information with third parties without proper consent. This guide provides a straightforward explanation of who is eligible, how to submit a claim, and what you need to know about the deadlines.
Understanding the Lee Enterprises Class Action Settlement
Lee Enterprises is a major media company that operates dozens of daily newspapers and hundreds of weekly publications across the United States. The settlement was reached to resolve a lawsuit alleging that the company violated the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA) by sharing information about the videos users watched on their websites with Facebook via the Meta Pixel.
While Lee Enterprises has denied any wrongdoing, they have agreed to a settlement fund to avoid the costs and risks of further litigation. This means that if you were a digital subscriber to one of their many publications, you may be entitled to a portion of the multi-million dollar settlement fund.
What is the Video Privacy Protection Act?
The Video Privacy Protection Act is a federal law that prohibits “video tape service providers” from knowingly disclosing personally identifiable information about a consumer’s video viewing history to third parties without express consent. In the digital age, this law has been applied to websites that host video content and use tracking tools like the Meta Pixel to share data with social media platforms.
Who is Eligible for a Payment?
Eligibility for this settlement is specific to a certain group of people. Generally, you are considered a class member if you meet the following criteria:
- You were a digital subscriber to a Lee Enterprises publication between September 21, 2020, and May 31, 2023.
- You had a Facebook account during that same time period.
- You viewed video content on a Lee Enterprises website while logged into Facebook.
If you received a notice via email or mail containing a Class Member ID, you are likely eligible. However, even if you did not receive a notice, you may still be able to file a claim if you meet the criteria above.
List of Impacted Lee Enterprises Publications
Lee Enterprises owns a vast network of local news outlets. Some of the most prominent newspapers included in this settlement are:
- The Buffalo News
- Richmond Times-Dispatch
- Arizona Daily Star (Tucson)
- Omaha World-Herald
- The Times of Northwest Indiana
- St. Louis Post-Dispatch
- The Roanoke Times
- Wisconsin State Journal
- Tulsa World
- Lincoln Journal Star
There are over 70 daily newspapers and many more digital sites involved. If you subscribed to a local newspaper owned by Lee Enterprises during the specified window, you should check the official settlement list to confirm your eligibility.
How to File a Claim Step-by-Step
Filing a claim is a simple process that can be completed online. It is important to follow the steps accurately to ensure your claim is processed without delays. Follow these instructions to submit your request for payment.
Step 1: Locate Your Notice ID
Check your email inbox or physical mail for a notice regarding the Lee Enterprises settlement. This notice usually contains a unique Notice ID and Confirmation Code. Having these codes makes the filing process much faster as it pre-fills your information.
Step 2: Visit the Official Settlement Website
Navigate to the authorized settlement administrator’s website. This is the only place where you should submit your personal information. Be cautious of third-party sites that ask for a fee; filing a claim in a class action settlement is always free.
Step 3: Complete the Claim Form
Select the option to “File a Claim.” You will be asked to provide your contact information, including your name, mailing address, and email address. If you do not have a Notice ID, you may need to provide the email address associated with your digital subscription to verify your status.
Step 4: Choose Your Payment Method
Most modern settlements offer several ways to receive your money. You can typically choose between a physical check, a direct deposit via ACH, or digital payment platforms like PayPal or Venmo. Digital options are often faster and more convenient.
Step 5: Submit and Save Your Confirmation
Review your information for accuracy and submit the form. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation number. Save this number for your records, as you will need it if you ever need to check the status of your claim later.
Important Dates and Deadlines
Class action settlements operate on strict timelines. Missing a deadline could result in losing your right to a payment or your right to sue the company individually. Keep these key dates in mind:
- Claim Filing Deadline: This is the most important date. You must submit your claim form by the date specified on the settlement website to be eligible for a payment.
- Opt-Out Deadline: If you wish to exclude yourself from the settlement (perhaps to file your own lawsuit), you must submit a request for exclusion by this date.
- Objection Deadline: If you disagree with the terms of the settlement, you can file an objection with the court by this date.
- Final Approval Hearing: The court will meet to decide whether to give final approval to the settlement. Payments are only distributed after this hearing and after any potential appeals are resolved.
How Much Money Will You Receive?
The exact amount each person receives depends on two main factors: the total amount of the settlement fund after legal fees are deducted and the total number of valid claims submitted. Because the fund is shared among all eligible participants, the more people who file, the smaller the individual payments will be.
In many VPPA settlements, individual payouts range from $10 to $50, though this can vary. It is rarely a life-changing amount of money, but it serves as a way for consumers to hold companies accountable for data privacy practices.
What Happens After You File?
After you submit your claim, the settlement administrator will review it for validity. This process can take several months. If the court grants final approval and there are no appeals, the settlement administrator will begin distributing payments to those who filed valid claims.
It is common for several months to pass between the filing deadline and the actual distribution of funds. You do not need to take any further action once you have your confirmation number, but you can periodically check the settlement website for updates on the approval status.
Final Thoughts on the Settlement
Participating in a class action settlement like the one involving Lee Enterprises is an important way for consumers to exercise their rights. By filing a claim, you ensure that you receive your fair share of the settlement fund and help send a message regarding the importance of data privacy.
If you believe you qualify, take a few minutes today to find your subscription information and file your claim before the deadline passes. It is a simple process that ensures you don’t leave money on the table. For more information on staying safe online and managing your digital subscriptions, feel free to explore our other guides on consumer rights and technology management.