Thirty-four states, including Maryland, announced Monday they reached an agreement with online message board host Topix.com that will make it easier — and cheaper — for consumers to have false or abusive posts removed.

Topix, which is partially owned by The Baltimore Sun's parent, the Tribune Co., allows people to post comments about news and local issues.

Consumers have complained that it took too long for Topix to investigate posts they deemed false or abusive, and that Topix charged $19.99 to expedite such a review.

Topix has now agreed to make several changes, including not charging for reviews and removing inappropriate posts within three business days instead of seven to 14 days.

eileen.ambrose@baltsun.com