The vote’s been tallied, and the European Union’s new Safer Internet program turned out to be roughly as controversial as claiming that water’s wet. While almost three percent of members abstained, a full 96 percent of the European Parliament agreed to spend 55 million to protect children online.
NY Lawmakers Approve Internet Tax
A new bill called the "Amazon Tax" has been approved by New York Legislators and is now awaiting the approval of New York governor David Patterson.If Patterson signs the bill into law it will require online retailers, such as Amazon to collect sales tax on items shipped to New York. The bill is estimated to generate $50 million in tax revenue for the state.
French Approve Invasion Of Apple DRM
Lawmakers in France characterize the passage of an online copyright draft bill by the National Assembly as one that will permit customers to download songs from other music stores to iPods and make it even more appealing to Apple’s hardware customers.
Shareholders Approve Merger of P&G and Gillette
Procter & Gamble’s plan to acquire Gillette for $57 billion has been approved by shareholders of both companies. As a result of the merger, P&G will increase the products it sells, adding items like razors and batteries.
ProLogis and Catellus Boards Approve Merger
The boards of ProLogis and Catellus Development have approved the acquisition of all Catellus’s outstanding common stock by ProLogis.The deal is valued at approximately $4.9 billion, including assumed liabilities and transaction costs.