The AP writes that the new standards will apply to sets up to 58 inches. The CEC left out even bigger sets in a concession to the Home Theater business.

Some TV makers yesterday, such as Vizio, said that the new standards will not affect their production and sales. By 2011, they said, new sets will easily meet California's requirements.

However, the Consumer Electronics Association, a trade group that represents TV makers, blasted California's decision.

"Instead of allowing customers to choose the products they want, the commission has decided to impose arbitrary standards that will hamper innovation and limit consumer choice," said Jason Oxman, a vice president with the Consumer Electronics Association. "It will result in higher prices for consumers, job losses for Californians, and lost tax revenue for the state."

Blu-ray Movies -- $9.99

Kindle Wireless Reading Device: $259

Panasonic 37-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV: $575

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Phillip Swann is president and publisher of TVPredictions.com. He has been quoted in dozens of publications and broadcast outlets, including CNN, Fox News, Inside Edition, The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Chicago Tribune, The Financial Times, The Associated Press and The Hollywood Reporter. He can be reached at swann@tvpredictions.com or at 703-505-3064.

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