CLICK ON THE US CONGRESS, OR AN
INDIVIDUAL STATE FROM THE LIST BELOW:
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Current Session: 2005/2006
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Bill No.(s) |
Sponsors/ Cosponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
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S2126 |
Bayh Clinton Lieberman |
Family Entertainment Protection Act Makes it illegal to rent or sell a game rated Mature or Adults Only to minors. Requires an annual, independent analysis of the ratings system, authorizes FTC to investigate misleading ratings, authorizes annual audit of retailers to determine compliance |
12/16/05 - Introduced, referred to Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation |
This bill relies on the industry ratings system rather than an independent analysis of violence. This may add to the constitutionality issues which have plagued similar bills. Clinton recently accepted a $1,000 a plate fundraiser dinner hosted by the industry, leading to suspicion by some critics of her sincerity on this issue, and one critic to even suggest that she purposely framed a bill she believed would be found unconstitutional. The author of this website is uncertain what her motives are, but it is curious behavior on her part, and so I am passing it along to readers. The other two cosponsors DID not, to my knowledge, accept similar contributions by the gaming industry |
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Markey (MA) Baca Ford Hart |
To amend the Public Health Service Act to authorize
funding for the establishment of a program on children and the media within
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to study the role and impact
of electronic media in the development of children. The stated purpose of this bill is to: (1) examine the role and impact of electronic media in children's and adolescents' cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and behavioral development; and (2) provide for a report to Congress containing the empirical evidence and other results produced by the research funded through grants under this Act |
11/22/2005 – Referred to Subcommitee on Health 10/24/05 - Introduced, referred to the House Committee on
Energy and Commerce. |
This bill authorizes $90 Million to be spent to investigate media influences on children (not just violent media). Media types covered include television, movies, DVD's, video games, internet, cell phones and any mass media "used to deliver media directly to children and adolescents" The full text of this bill is (relatively) short and definitely worth reading. Related to S1912 and S579 |
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Lieberman Bayh Brownback Clinton Durban Santorum |
Children and Media Research Advancement Act A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to authorize funding for the establishment of a program on children and the media within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to study the role and impact of electronic media in the development of children. |
9/14/2006 Passed
Senate (unanimous); referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
3/8/2006
– Passed committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions. 10/10/2005 - Introduced |
Related to HR4124 and S579 |
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SR212 |
Brownback |
A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the
Federal Trade Commission should investigate the publication of the video game
"Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas" to determine if the publisher
deceived the Entertainment Software Ratings Board to avoid an "Adults
Only" rating. |
7/26/05 - Introduced, referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. |
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HR376 |
Upton (MI) Markey (MA) |
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that
the Federal Trade Commission should investigate the publication of the video
game "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas" to determine if the publisher
intentionally deceived the Entertainment Software Ratings Board to avoid an
"Adults -Only" rating |
7/25/05 - Passed 355/21 7/22/05 - Introduced |
NOTE: Grand Theft Auto/San Andreas was recently found to have hidden sex scenes, which could be unhidden with code available over the internet. |
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Wyden (OR) |
Kid Friendly TV Programming Act of 2005: Requires multichannel video programming distributors to offer at least 15 child-friendly channels. Child-friendly means they do not carry programming, advertisements, or public service announcements that would be considered inappropriate for children due to obscene, indecent, profane, sexual, or gratuitous and excessively violent content.. |
4/28/05 - Introduced, referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation |
Note: This relates to television. |
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S616 |
Rockefeller - WV Hutchison - TX |
Indecent and Gratuitous and Excessively Violent Programming Control Act of 2005 Requires the FCC to assess the prevalence of violent programming on television and by multichannel video programming distributors, the effectiveness of broadcast television and multichannel video programming measures to protect children from violence. If measures are determined inadequate, the FCC is authorized to adopt measures to protect children. Also authorizes local stations to refuse to broadcast violent content without penalty. |
3/14/05 - Introduced and referred to Committee on Commerce, Science and Technology |
Also has language related to obscenity and indecency |
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Lieberman(CT) Brownback (KA) Clinton (NY)Durbin (IL) Ensign (NV) Johnson (SD) Landrieu (LA) Lincoln (AR) Santorium(PA) |
Children and Media Research Advancement Act
Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize funding for the establishment of a program on children and the media within the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development to study the role and impact of electronic media in the development of children . |
3/9/05 - Introduced, referred to Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions |
Related to HR4124 and S1912 |
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HR1145 |
Baca - CA |
Requires the Federal Trade Commission to study the rating system of the video game industry and assess their labeling practices to determine if such practices are unfair or deceptive. |
3/22/05 -Referred to subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection 3/8/05 - Introduced, referred to House Committee on Energy and Commerce
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Does not ask for any analysis of appropriateness of ratings criteria - only that the ratings board is following its own criteria. |
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HR669 |
Baca - CA(42 cosponsors)
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Short Title: Protect Children from Video Game Sex and Violence Act of 2003
Amends Federal Criminal Code to prohibit the sale or rental to a minor of a video game that depicts nudity, sexual conduct, or other content harmful to minors |
3/6/03 - Referred to Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security 2/11/03 - Introduced and referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary |
Nudity and sexual content in video games is often presented in a violent setting |
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HR3914
S161 |
HOUSE:Baca - CAOsborne - NEPrice - NCMiller - FLPomeroy - NDSENATE:Hollings - SC Dorgan -ND
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Short Title: Children's Protection from Violent Programming Act
Directs FCC to access effectiveness of current measures to prohibit viewing of violent programming during hours when children are reasonably likely to comprise a substantial portion of the audience
Amends the FCC Act of 1934 to make in unlawful for any person to distribute violent programming not blockable by electronic means, with exceptions for specific types of violence (such as the news).
Directs FCC to impose forfeiture penalty for violations and revoke licenses of repeat offenders
Directs FCC to study and report to specified committees on the marketing to children of violent content by the motion picture, music recording, and computer and video game industries |
HOUSE: 3/11/04 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet. 3/9/04 - Introduced and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce SENATE: 1/14/03 - Introduced and referred to Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation |
This is one of the few pieces of proposed legislation that addresses media other than video games. |
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HR4645 |
Baca- CA (35 cosponsors)
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Prevents sale or rental of adult video games to minors. Adult described as video game showing: (1) decapitation, amputation, dismemberment, or mutilation; (2) the killing of human beings or human-like beings by the use of an object as a lethal weapon or hand-to-hand fighting; (3) the car jacking of a vehicle; (4) the use of illegal drugs; (5) rape or other sexual assault; (6) prostitution; (7) aggravated assault or battery; or (8) any other violent felony. First offense fine of up to $1,000.
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Similar bill reintroduced in 2003 (HR669) 7/10/02 - Referred to sumcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security 5/2/02 Introduced and referred to Committee on Judiciary |
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S341
HR1005 |
Hollings (5 cosponsors)
Shows (12 cosponsors) |
Seeks to restore the "family hour" by prohibiting the distribution of violent video programming during the hours that children are a large part of the audience if such programming is not blockable by electronic devices. Requires the FCC to evaluate its rules requiring television broadcasters and multichannel video distributors to rate and encode those programs that can be blocked by the v-chip. Allows the FCC authority to exempt from ratings programs such as news and sporting events |
SENATE 2/15/01 - Senate Introduced and referred to Commerce committee HOUSE 3/20/01 referred to telecommunications and the internet subcommittee introduced and referred to Energy and Commerce Committee |
Similar bill reintroduced in Senate in 2003 (S161)
This is one of the few pieces of proposed legislation that addresses media other than video games. |
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HR655 |
Hastings (1 cosponsor) |
Establish a commission to research the glorification of violence in the US, including media effects |
3/2/01 - referred to Subcommittee on Crime 2/14/01 - Introduced
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HR1916 |
Wamp, Stupak |
21st Century Media Responsibility Act of 2001 - Amends the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act to state that it is the policy of Congress to provide for the establishment, use, and enforcement of a consistent and comprehensive system for labeling violent content in audio and visual media products, including the appropriateness of such products for minors. |
5/22/01 - referred to Committee on Energy and Commerce 5/17/01 - Introduced |
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HR2246 S792 (IDENTICAL BILLS) |
Israel, Osborne, Lucas Leiberman, Byrd, Rodham, Kohl |
Media Marketing Accountability Act of 2001 - Declares that targeted marketing to minors of an adult-rated motion picture, music recording, or electronic game shall be treated as a deceptive act or practice within the meaning of the Federal Trade Commission Act, and considered unlawful unless the producer or distributor responsible for advertising or marketing adheres to a voluntary self-regulatory system that comports with criteria established by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). |
HOUSE ACTIONS 6/25/01 - Referred to House committee on Energy and Commerce 6/20/01 - Introduced SENATE ACTIONS 4/26/01 Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation
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S124 |
Brownback, Byrd, DeWine, Dorgam, Helms, Infofe, Tim Johnson,Kohl, Lott, Sessions |
Children's Protection Act of 2001: A bill to exempt agreements relating to voluntary guidelines governing telecast material, movies, video games, Internet content, and music lyrics from the applicability of the antitrust laws, and for other purposes. |
1/22/01 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Judiciary |
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HR2210 |
Kaptur, Hunter |
To establish the National Commission on the Impact of United States Culture on American Youth. |
8/20/01 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Education Reform. 6/18/01 - Introduced and referred to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.
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US Congress Page
Link: http://thomas.loc.gov
ALABAMA
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Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
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HB573 |
Brewbaker, Love, |
Prohibits the sale or rental of sexually explicit video games to minors. |
3/3/05 - Introduced and referred to judiciary |
Although this is related to sexual, rather than violent content, it is included in this table as sexually explicit video games are not currently illegal to minors, although other sexually explicit materials may be. |
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HB441 |
Love (45 cosponsors) |
Prohibits sale or rental of violent or sexually explicit video games to minors |
5/3/05 - Indefinitely postponed in House 3/16/05 - Second reading and referred to Judiciary 2/15/05 - Introduced and referred to Judiciary |
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ALASKA
None known
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Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
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HB2581 |
Taylor |
Prohibits the sale or rental of sexually explicit or violent video games to minors. |
2/7/2005 - Introduced and jointly referred to committees judiciary, commerce, rules. |
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Current Session: 2006/2007
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Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
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Matayo |
An act to establish a criminal offense for allowing the public exhibition of violent interactive video games to minors. "Violent" is described as games having an "M" rating. |
5/13/05-Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment |
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HB2739 |
C. Taylor Anderson Bennett Bledsoe Borhauer Creekmore Dangeau Fite Hardwick Hutchinson Mack Nichols Norton Ormond Parks Roebuck Rosenbaum Schulte
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An act to regulate a minor's accessibility to video games with violent or sexual context
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4/17/03 - Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment. 3/10/03 - Read the first time, rules suspended, read the second time and referred to the Committee on HOUSE |
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HB1025 |
Minton, Parks |
Defines violence as it applies to video and computer games; Provides for video game and computer game ratings to be determined by Atty General; Provides penalties for selling or renting violent video games to minors; Provides penalties for establishments not providing list of Atty General ratings
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3/6/01 - WITHDRAWN BY AUTHOR 1/8/01 - Read the first time, rules suspended, read the second time and referred to the Committee on HOUSE RULES 11/15/00 - Prefiled |
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CALIFORNIA
Current Session 2005/2006
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Bill No.(s) |
Sponsor/Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
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AB 450 |
Yee |
Makes it illegal to rent or sell a violent video game to persons under 18. Games must be labeled clearly. Retailers not held accountable if they made good faith effort at asking for ID. Fines up to $1000 |
10/7/05 - Signed into law by Governor 9/9/05 - To Governor for signature. 9/8/05 - Passed by Senate 22/9; Passed by House 65/7 9/8/05 -Unrelated bill amended to address violent video games 8/15/05 - Removed from inactive status 6/2/05 - Moved to inactive status by author. May be reintroduced. 5/5/05 - Passed AEST &IM; to floor for full vote. Rep. Yee is meeting with industry to consider a compromise bill before full floor vote. 4/19/05 - Passed Judiciary, referred to Arts, Entertainment, Sports Tourism, and Internet Media (AEST & IM). Hearing Scheduled for May 3 2/15/05 - Introduced. |
Note: this bill c hanged from AB450 to AB1179 in early September. |
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ACR228 |
Chavez |
This measure would resolve that the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) should carefully consider the content of video and computer games, and that its ratings should reflect content that allows participants to virtually commit realistic acts of violence. The measure would urge the video and computer game industry and its retail partners to make efforts to educate consumers about the availability of the ESRB rating system, and would urge retailers to utilize the rating system. The measure would also urge community groups, statewide advocacy groups, and the media to promote and educate consumers about the rating system. |
8/9/04 - Adopted by Assembly Assembly and filed with
Secretary of State. |
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AB1793 |
Yee Runner Koretz Lieber Mullin Vargas Senator Kuehl |
Requires that video game retailers post ratings information in a visible area. |
9/21/04
- Signed by the Governor. 4/27/04 - Passed Committee with amendment that excluded the Mature category from the restriction, leaving the Adult Only category. 4/13/04 - Failed committee 3/1/04: Referred to Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports, Tourism and Internet Media 1/5/04 - First Reading (includes both Mature and Adult Only rated games. |
The original version of this bill would have require that retailers place games rated M or AO in a separate area than other games. The version passed is much more limited. |
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AB1792 |
Yee Runner Koretz Lieber Mullin Vargas Senator Kuehl
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Existing California law protects minors from distribution of "Harmful matter". This law would expand the definition of harmful matter to include violent video games This bill would set forth legislative findings and declarations regarding the harmful effects of violent video games on minors. It would include within the definition of harmful matter any video game that appeals to minors' morbid interest in violence, that enables the player to virtually inflict serious injury upon human beings or characters with substantially human characteristics in a manner that is especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel, as defined, and that lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value for minors. |
4/13/04 - Failed Committee 3/1/04: Referred to Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports, Tourism and Internet Media and Public Safety 1/5/04 - First Reading. |
This bill is somewhat unique in that it does not create a separate law regulating violent video games as some other states have attempted, but includes them in an already established law. |
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AB1956 |
Vargas |
This
bill would require a video arcade |
9/21/02 - Signed into law by Governor 8/29/02 - Sent to Governor for signing 8/21/02 - Passed assembly 8/19/02 - Passed senate 2/14/02
- Introduced |
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AB40 |
Vargas |
Requires video arcades to prominently label ratings of video games for violent and sexually explicit content. Requires that video games with a "red" rating be located at least 10 feet from other video games and separated by a partition |
2/7/02 -From committee: Filed with the Chief Clerk pursuant to Joint Rule 56. Died pursuant to Art. IV, Sec. 10(c) of the Constitution. 4/25/01 - Passed Judiciary committee and referred to Appropriations for Jan 2002. 4/16/01 - Introduced in amended form |
This bill is patterned after a similar bill in Indianapolis which was overturned (see Indiana) |
California Legislative
Page Link: http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/bilinfo.html
None known
Colorado Legislative
Page Link: http://www.state.co.us/gov_dir/stateleg.html
CONNECTICUT
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Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
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SB 108 |
Harp, Toni |
Prohibits the use of point and shoot games in public arcades by children |
2/22/05 - Out of committee with no action 1/12/05 - Introduced and referred to Joint Committee on Children |
This is almost identical to the bill which was passed in 2001, but then vetoed by the governor. |
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Public Act 01-54 SB119 |
Harp |
Persons under 18 are prohibited from operating point-and-shoot simulator video games Fine up to $1,000 for violation |
5/31/01 - Vetoed by governor 5/16/01 - Passed house 5/10/01 - Passed senate |
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DELAWARE
Current Session: 2006/2007
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Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
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HB360 |
Keeley Spence Ulbrich |
This Act expands the Protection of Minors from Harmful Materials statute to include video-games. |
3/15/06 – Temporarily tabled 3/1/06 – Introduced, to Judiciary |
NOTE: Judiciary committee found constitutional problems and is giving Keeley an opportunity to reword bill |
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Keeley Spence Ulbrich
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This Act prohibits a person from
selling or renting a video game, if rated, unless the official rating is
clearly displayed. This Act also makes it unlawful for a person to sell or
rent a 'Mature' rated game to a person under 17 or an 'Adults Only' rated
game to a person under 18, and requires proof of age prior to sale or
rental. Any violation will be a Class “A” Misdemeanor. |
11/03/05 - Introduced and assigned to Judiciary Committee |
Note: This bill was withdrawn in favor of HB360, above. |
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HB221 |
Keeley Reps. Buckworth, Carey, D. Ennis, Ewing, George, Hall-Long, Hocker, Houghton, Mulrooney, Williams;
Sen. Henry |
This bill prohibits a person from selling or renting a video game, if rated, unless the official rating is clearly displayed. This bill also makes it unlawful for a person to sell or rent to an underage person and requires proof of age prior to sale or rental. Any violation will be a Class "A" misdemeanor. |
· 6/18/03 - Reported Out of Committee (JUDICIARY) with 5 On Its Merits, 1 Unfavorable · 6/10/03 - Introduced and Assigned to Judiciary Committee in House |
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DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
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Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
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B16-0125 |
Fenty Graham |
Bans the sale or rental of games rated Mature, Rating Pending, or Not Rated to persons under 17; and bans sale or rental of games rated Adults Only, to persons under 18. Requires ratings to be posted. First violation - $1,000. |
2/9/05 - Referred to committee on Consumer and Regulatory Affairs 2/3/05 - Introduced, with public support of Mayor. Full text
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District of Columbia Legislature
FLORIDA
Current Session: 2006
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Bill No.(s) |
Sponsor/Cosponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
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Resolution (Miami-Dade School Board) |
Bolanos |
Resolution urging retailers not to sell Bully to minors (so, simply follow the ESRB ratings, then) and directing the school district to distribute information to parents on "on the potential harmful effects to children of playing interactive video games containing violence." |
3/14/06 - Passed |
Notes: Bully is a video game not yet released at the time of passage. http://www.rockstargames.com/bully/ It has received considerable negative press and attention for its expected promotion of school violence at a time when schools are actively working to decrease bullying. School Board website is www. dadeschools.net 305-995-1000 |
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HB647 |
Baxley Taylor |
Prohibits a person from selling or renting a video game to a minor, or allowing a minor to play a video game in a video arcade, if the video game has been labeled as a violent video game; |
5/6/2006 - Died in committee 4/17/2006 - Approved by Business Regulation Committee 3/7/2006 – First Reading |
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S0492 |
Diaz de la Portilla |
Prohibits a person from selling or renting video game to minor, or allowing minor to play video game in video arcade, if such game has been labeled as violent video game |
5/5/06Died in committee
4/04/06 - Passed Judiciary, to Judiciary Appropriations
03/08/06-Passed criminal justice 8/0. To judiciary 01/11/06 Favorable by Commerce and Consumer Services; YEAS 7NAYS 1; Now in Criminal Justice 12/29/05 On Committee agenda-- Commerce and Consumer Services 11/10/05 Referred to Commerce and Consumer Services; Criminal Justice, Judiciary; Justice Appropriations 10/25/05 - Introduced |
NOTE: Related to HB647 |
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S1148 |
Miller, Les |
Prohibits sale or rental of "adult" video game to persons under 18. Adult video game means any video recording of a game which contains representations or images of excessive violence, nudity or sexual conduct that is harmful to persons younger than 18 years of age. Creates a third degree felony for violators. |
5/6/05 - Died in Committee 03/08/05 SENATE Introduced, referred to Commerce and Consumer Services; 02/18/05 - Referred to Commerce and Consumer Services; Criminal Justice; 1/31/05 - Filed |
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City of North Miami |
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Cannot sell or rent video games that contain realistic or photographic-like depictions of aggressive conflict in which the player kills, injures, or otherwise causes serious physical harm to a human form in the game without parental approval. |
2004 - Failed second reading. 1/27/04 Council gave final approval (first reading), but implementation delayed until court case in Washington State is settled. 1/14/04 Council gave preliminary approval. |
North Miami has a large Haitian community. Grand Theft Auto-Vice City, an "M-Mature" rated video games includes dialogue to "kick all the Haitians". The Haitian community demanded the wording me removed, which the game maker agreed to do on future releases. The community is pursuing further restrictions in court. It is against this backdrop this bill has been introduced. |
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HB91
SB646 |
McInvale Antone; Baxley; Brandenburg; Brutus; Bucher; Fiorentino
Miller |
Defines "adult video game"; prohibits the sale
or rental of adult video games to minors; requires proof of age to be
presented prior to sale or rental of such video games; prohibits the purchase
or rental of adult video games by minors; violation considered a third-degree
felony. |
4/30/04 - Died in committee on Judiciary 2/5/04 - HB Cosponsorship requested 11/21/03 - HB Introduced. Referred to Public Safety & Crime Prevention, Judiciary, and Appropriations
04/30/04 SENATE Died in Committee on Children and Families 03/03/04 SENATE Favorable with 1 amendment(s) by Criminal Justice; 03/04/04 SENATE Now in Children and Families -SJ 00213 12/05/03 S Referred to Criminal Justice; Children and Families; Commerce, Economic Opportunities, and Consumer Services |
Rep. McInvale has plans to
reintroduce a similar bill in 2005 |
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SB2024
HB 905 |
Miller
McInvale (3 Cosponsors) |
Prohibit the sale or rental of adult video games to persons under 18 years of age; provides penalties |
5/2/03 SENATE and HOUSE Died in Committee on Criminal Justice 3/18/03 SENATE Introduced, referred to Criminal Justice Committee 5/2/03 Died in Committee on Criminal Justice 3/7/03 HOUSE Referred to Appropriations, Commerce, Public Safety and Crime, and Criminal Justice subcommittees 3/4/03 HOUSE First reading |
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HB 662 S 730 |
Wiles Senate Sponsor: Criminal Justice |
creates "Children's Protection
from Violent Video Games Act of 2002"; provides definitions; prohibits
sale or rental of video games under certain circumstances; restricts public
display of certain video games; requires official rating on specified video
games; provides penalties. Creates 847.301 |
3/22/02 - House - Died in Committee
on Judicial Oversight 03/22/02 SENATE Died in Committee on Appropriations
Subcommittee on Public Safety and Judiciary 1/22/02 - House - Referred to Judicial Oversight 01/22/02 SENATE Introduced, referred to Criminal
Justice; Appropriations Subcommittee on Public Safety and Judiciary;
Appropriations |
Florida legislative page link: http://www.leg.state.fl.us/
GEORGIA
Current Session: 2005-2006
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Bill No.(s) |
Sponsor |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
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Stoner, Doug Hamrick, William Thompson, Curt Rogers, Chip Powell, J Hill, Judson |
Requires that video game retailers display signs related to their rating system, and provide details of the system upon request.
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5/10/05 - Signed into law by Governor 4/11/05 - Sent to Governor 3/31/05 - Pass House (153/3) 3/31/05 - Agreed to House Amendments (43/0) 3/11/05 - Pass senate (43/0) 2/24/05 - Amended by Committee and passed 2/2/05 - Introduced and referred to Science and Technology committee |
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SB105 |
Stoner, Doug Hamrick, William Thompson, Curt Rogers, Chip Powell, J Hill, Judson
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Unlawful to sell or rent violent (excessively heinous or cruel) video games to minors. |
2/2/05 - Introduced and referred to Science and Technology committee |
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HB 1378
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Hugley, Carolyn 3 cosponsors
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Creates a misdemeaner if a person commits an offense if the person sells, rents, or otherwise provides for use for a charge any video game to a minor which contains scenes or depictions of graphic violence as determined by the Entertainment Software Rating Board. |
2/13/2002 Introduced |
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HAWAII
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Bill No. |
Sponsor(s) |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
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SB3204 |
Chun Oakland |
Requires violent video games to be labeled as specified and prohibits the sale or rental of those violent video games to minors. Provides that a person who violates the law shall be fined up to $1,000 for each violation. |
Died in Commmittee 2/9/2006 - The committee(s) on HMS recommend(s) that the measure be HELD. The votes in HMS were as follows: 4 Aye(s): Senator(s) Chun Oakland, Fukunaga, Hooser, Kokubun; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 2 Excused: Senator(s) Ihara, Trimble. 1/30/2006 - Referred to HMS, JHW. 1/27/2006 - Passed First Reading. |
Companion bill to HB2261 |
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HB2261 |
ARAKAKI, GREEN, KAHIKINA, LEE, MARUMOTO, MORITA, Abinsay, Berg, Carroll, Herkes, Kawakami, Magaoay, Schatz, Shimabukuro, Tanaka |
Requires violent video games to be labeled as specified and prohibits the sale or rental of those violent video games to minors. Provides that a person who violates the law shall be fined up to $1,000 for each violation. |
Died in committee 1/30/2006 - The committees on CPC recommend that the
measure be HELD. The votes were as follows: 7 Ayes: Representative(s) Herkes,
Schatz, Caldwell, Karamatsu, Sonson, Souki, Marumoto; Ayes with reservations:
none; 0 Noes: none; and 4 Excused: Representative(s) Ito, Kanoho, Morita,
Stonebraker. |
Companion bill to SB3204 |
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HB 2705 |
MINDO, MORITA, Hamakawa, Hiraki |
Prohibits Selling Violent Video Games to minors |
2/2/04 - Referred to EDB, JUD, CPC 1/27/04 - Introduced |
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HI HCR 168
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Stonebraker
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Declares April 22-28,2002 Hawaii "Shut Da TV Week" |
3/18/02 Referred to House Committee on Health and, House Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee 3/13/02 Introduced |
4/22-28 was the national shut down the TV week.
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Hawaii Legislative page
link: http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/
IDAHO
None known
Current Session: 2006
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Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
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House Senate: |
Prohibits sale or rental of violent or sexually explicit video games to minors. Creates a Class A Misdemeanor with fines up to $5,000. Violent" video games include depictions of or 27 simulations of human-on-human violence in which the player 28 kills, seriously injures, or otherwise causes serious physical 29 harm to another human, including but not limited to depictions 30 of death, dismemberment, amputation, decapitation, maiming, 31 disfigurement, mutilation of body parts, or rape. |
12/3/05 - Overturned by U.S. District Court. See ruling here 7/25/05- Signed into Law by Governor. The Entertainment Software
Association, Video Software Dealers Association and the Illinois Retail
Merchants Association are challenging in court. |
The governor has created a website devoted to this legislation, at www.safegamesillinois.org. It contains background information useful to viewers from all states. |
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|
HB2412 |
Bradley |
Prohibits inmates from possessing any Mature or Adult Only video game in a correctional institution |
4/15/05 - Rereferred to rules 4/8/05 - Second reading 2/18/05 - Assigned to Judiciary 2/17/05 - Introduced; referred to Rules |
|
|
Chicago |
Burke Carothers |
Requires M and T rated video games to be put in a restricted area. Prohibits their sale to minors. |
12/8/04 - Introduced and referred to Committee on Police and Fire |
Action on this is being delayed pending action on the Illinois Bill HB4023 |
|
SB1131
|
Halvorson |
Creates
the Violent Video Game Warning Act. Requires a person or business offering
for sale, lease, or rent any video game containing graphic violence to
conspicuously display a warning sign at the entrance and exit of the business
establishment stating that the business offers those video games and advising
parental supervision of the purchase, rental, or lease of those games.
Provides that a violation of the Act is a petty offense, punishable by a fine
not to exceed $250. |
2002
- Referred to Senate Rules Committee - dead for this session 3/31/01- Referred
to rules committee First reading
2/22/2001 |
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INDIANA
Current Session: 2005/2006
|
Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
S 0135 |
Kruse, Bray Simpson |
Requires a video game retailer to place a warning label on violent or sexually explicit video games. Prohibits the sale or rental of violent or sexually explicit video games by means of a scanning device that has not been programmed to prompt the sales clerk to ask the purchaser to show identification. Prohibits the sale or rental of a violent or sexually explicit video game to a child less than 18 years of age |
Died in Committee 01/12/2006 S Senator Bray added as second author 01/12/2006 S Senator Simpson added as coauthor01/09/2006 S Authored by
Senator(s) Kruse 01/09/2006 S First reading: referred to Committee on Corrections,
Criminal, and Civil Matters |
|
|
HB1357 |
Smith V, Klinker |
Imposes certain requirements on an establishment that has violent or sexually explicit video games. Creates penalties for a person who: (1) presents false information in order to operate a restricted video game; or (2) misrepresents that the person is a parent, guardian, or custodian of a minor for the purpose of allowing a minor to operate a restricted video game. |
1/14/03 - read first time and referred to Committee on Human Affairs. |
|
|
City-Council Ordinance |
Introduced by Mayor Peterson March 2000
|
Requires businesses to label coin-operated games featuring graphic violence or strong sexual content and prohibits children under 18 from playing them without parental consent. It also fines businesses $200 per day per violation. A business with three violations in a year is forbidden to offer such games and could have its amusement location license revoked. |
12/31/01 - US District Court Judge issued a permanent injunction against City of Indianapolis and ordered them to pay plaintiff's court fees 10/29/01 - US Supreme Court Declined to hear case Summer 2001 - Declared unconstitutional by US 7th Circuit Court of Appeals - 7/17/00- Signed into law by Mayor Peterson 7/10/00 Passed City Council unanimously 3/30/00 Ordinance introduced by Peterson 3/13/00 Peterson issues executive order banning all violent video games from city-run property (this is not part of overturned law) |
Law was overturned on the basis that violence is not classified under the obscenity laws and "compelling evidence" was not introduced to give the government reason to interfere with free speech. |
IOWA
|
Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
HF 2104 |
Petersen Wendt Whitehead Gaskill Whitaker Cohoon Shomshor Jacoby Ford Bukta Foege Schueller Lensing Pettengill Kroeschell Oldsen Quirk D. Olson Smith Jochum Kuhn Swaim, Berry Reichert Mertz Murphy
|
An Act prohibiting the sale or rental of violent or sexually explicit video games to minors and providing for civil and criminal penalties.
"Violent video game" means a video game that depicts or simulates violence against a person in which the player of the video game simulates killing or causing serious physical injury to another person. |
3/10/06 – Failed to meet deadline 2/15/06 - Subcommittee reassigned, Baudler, Chambers, and Reasoner. 2/8/06 - Rereferred to Public Safety. 1/26/06 - Subcommittee, J.R. Van Fossen, Heaton, and Winckler. 1/24/06 - Rereferred to Judiciary.. 1/24/06 - Introduced, referred to
State Government. |
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KANSAS
Current Session 2005/2006
|
Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
HB2921 |
Ward |
Unlawful to sell
mature or adult only video or computer games to minors; first |
Died in committee 02/15/2006 -
Referred to Judiciary |
|
KENTUCKY
None known
LOUISIANA
Current Session: 2006
|
Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
| SB340 | Cain | Prohibits sale or rental of sexually explicit video games to minors |
6/22/2006 - Signed into law by governor 6/15/2006 - Passed House 5/18/2006 - Passed Senate 3/17/2006 - Introduced |
Included for reference only, as this is not violence per se. The industry will not oppose. |
|
(previously HB421) |
Burrell |
Expands definition of “harmful matter” to include video games, and includes video game violence violence (previous harmful matter references were sexual only). Prohibits persons under 17 to be in an establishment that displays “harmful matter” |
8/25/2006 - Federa; District Court Judge Brady issues preliminary injunction prohibiting law from taking effect 6/15/2006 - Signed into law by Governor 6/06/2006 - Passed Senate 5/30/2006 - Passed Senate Judiciary Committee 5/18/2006 - Passed House 102/0 5/10/2006 - Passed commitee 8/0 3/15/2006 – Prefiled, assigned to Criminal Justice |
The industry has challenged this bill in court. |
|
Crow |
Expands definition of “harmful matter” to include video games, and includes video game violence violence (previous harmful matter references were sexual only). Prohibits persons under 17 to be in an establishment that displays “harmful matter” |
3/13/2006 – Prefiled, assigned to Criminal Justice |
Nearly identical to HB421, above. Senate session convenes March 27, 2006l |
|
|
Burrell |
Amends the crime of sale, exhibition, or distribution of material harmful to minors to include video games. |
6/23/2005 - Senate
adjourned. Bill to be revisited in 2006 session |
|
|
|
SB586 |
Marionneaux |
Prohibits the sale or rental of video games or computer games having a "mature" rating to minors |
3/31/03 - Introduced and referred to Judiciary. |
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MAINE
Current Session: 2005/2006
None known
MARYLAND
|
Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
Kach Ross |
Prohibiting a person from willfully or knowingly displaying or exhibiting to a minor an obscene video game; establishing criminal penalties for violation of the Act; etc. |
5/2/06 - Signed into law 4/2/06 - Passed Senate 4/2/06 - Passed House 2/21/06 - Favorable
report adopted, second reading passed |
Note: This is related to obscenity, not violence per se, but is included here as a reference.
The game industry is not planning to challenge this law. Crossfiled with HB670 |
|
|
HB75 |
Ross |
Prohibiting the sale or rental of violent video games to minors; providing an exception to the prohibition; requiring violent video games to be labeled in a specified manner; providing that a person that violates the Act is subject to a specified fine; providing for specified defenses; making the provisions of the Act severable; etc. |
1/11/05 - First reading, to judiciary |
|
|
HB54 |
Kach |
Prohibiting a person from selling, offering to sell, displaying for the purpose of sale, or renting to a minor a video or computer game that has been given a "For Adults Only" rating by a specified rating system; establishing criminal penalties for a violation of the Act; providing for an affirmative defense to a charge of a violation of the Act; and defining specified terms. |
2/24/06 - Withdrawn 1/11/05 - First reading, to judiciary |
NOTE: This legislation would apply to AO (Adult Only) ratings only. See note under HB698 regarding the AO category |
|
HB698 |
Ross |
Prohibits a person from renting or selling a video game rated "Mature" (M) or "Adults Only" (AO) to a person under 18. Establishes criminal penalties. |
3/14/05 - Unfavorable report by judiciary 2/7/05 - Introduced and referred to judiciary. |
The "AO" category is rarely used - as of 2/21/05 there were 18 AO rated games, out of over 10,000 total rated games. |
MASSACHUSETTS
Current Session: 2005/2006
None known
MICHIGAN
Current Session: 2005/2006
|
Bill No.(s) |
Sponsor |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
HR0205 |
Angerer (32 Cosponsors) |
A resolution to express support for a
boycott of "25 to Life," a video game that invites players to kill
law enforcement personnel, and to urge parents, retailers, caregivers, and
others to join this boycott and to keep this game away from children. |
3/7/06 – Introduced; referred to committee on Government Operations |
|
|
Van Woerkom Cropsey |
The bill would amend Public Act 33 of 1978, which
prohibits disseminating, exhibiting, or displaying sexually explicit or
ultra violent matter
to minors, to extend the prohibition to video games that depicted sexually
explicit material. The bill would take effect on December 1, 2005. |
4/3/06 - Ruled unconstitutional by Federal Court of Michigan, Eastern Division. Full text of opinion . 9/14/05 - Signed into Law by governor 09/08/05 - Passed House 396/106 5/17/05 - Referred to House
Committee on Judiciary |
|
|
|
Toy Cropsey |
Provides for immunity from prosecution for retailers selling violent or sexually explicit materials to minors if retailer acted in good faith (asking for ID) and if rating system is followed. |
5/17/05 - House referred to Judiciary 5/12/05 - With amendments, passed Senate 145 / 37 5/11/05 - Out of committee favorable with amendments 5/5/05 - Introduced, referred to Committee on Judiciary |
Note: In some other states, the proposed laws prohibiting violent video game sales already have this embedded in the wording. |
|
|
Pavlov 66 cosponsors |
The bill would amend Public Act 33 of 1978, which
prohibits disseminating, exhibiting, or displaying sexually explicit matter
to minors, to extend the prohibition to video games that depicted sexually
explicit material. |
9/12/05 - signed into law by governor 9/1/05 - sent to governor 8/31/05 - Senate amendment(s) concurred in Roll Call # 354/106; enrolled 6/1/05 - Returned to House for
Concurrence 5/25/05 - Recommended with amendments 5/11/05 - Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee 5/10/05 - Passed 108/0 5/4/05 - Recommended with amendments 5/3/05 - Introduced, referred to Judiciary |
NOTE: This does not refer to violence specifically, however many violent games include sexual violence. |
|
|
Pearce 42 cosponsors |
The bill would amend the Michigan
Penal Code to require a video game retailer to post in a prominent area
within the retail establishment a sign that provided information about a
rating system or notified consumers that a rating system was available to aid
in the selection of a game. The retailer also would have to make available to
consumers, upon request, information explaining the video game rating system.
A video game retailer who violated the bill would be responsible for a State
civil infraction and could be ordered to pay a civil fine of up to $1,000. |
9/12/05 - signed into law by governor 9/1/05 - sent to governor 8/31/05 - Senate amendment(s) concurred in Roll Call # 355/106; enrolled 6/1/05 - Returned to House for
Concurrence |
|
|
|
HB4604 |
Pavlov (12 cosponsors) |
A person shall not sell or rent a
restricted video game to a person who is less than 17 years of age. As used
in |
4/13/05 - Introduced; referred to Judiciary |
NOTE: This is identical to HB4593 (below) in wording; however this bill makes violation a civil infraction, rather than a misdemeanor.
NOTE: Unlike many other states, this does not allow for sale even with parental permission. |
|
HB4593 |
House: Angerer (34 cosponsors)
|
A person shall not sell or rent a restricted video game to a person who is less than 18 years of age. As used in this section, "restricted video game" means a video game rated AO (adults only) or M (mature) by the entertainment software rating board. A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 1 year or a fine of not more than $5,000.00, or both. |
4/13/05 - Introduced; referred to Judiciary |
NOTE: This differs from SB 0249 (below) only in the age of the restriction. This differs from HB4604 (above) in the type of crime. NOTE: Unlike many other states, this does not allow for sale even with parental permission. |
|
SB0249 |
Clarke (22 cosponsors) |
A person shall not sell or rent a restricted video game to a person who is less than 17 years of age. As used in this section, "restricted video game" means a video game rated AO (adults only) or M (mature) by the entertainment software rating board. A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 1 year or a fine of not more than $5,000.00, or both. |
5/17/05 - Referred to House committee on Judiciary 5/12/2005 - Passed Senate 143/33 5/11/2005 - Out of committee favorably, to floor 2/24/2005 - Introduced and referred to Judiciary |
NOTE: Unlike many other states, this does not allow for sale even with parental permission. |
|
HB 4267
|
Woodward (45 cosponsors) |
Amend Michigan Penal Code to prohibit sale or rental of video games rated "AO" (Adults Only) or "M" (Mature) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board, to an individual under 17 years of age |
2/25/03 - Introduced and referred to Commerce Committee |
|
Michigan Legislative Web
Page: http://michiganlegislature.org/
MINNESOTA
Current session: 2005/2006
|
Bill No.(s) |
Sponsor/Cosponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
HF1298
|
House: Johnson Opatz; Senate: Pappas; |
This bill prohibits a person under the age of 17 from knowingly renting or purchasing a restricted video game and prohibits an owner of a retail establishment or an employee from renting or selling a restricted video game to a person under the age of 17. A restricted video game means a game rated AO or M by the Entertainment Software Rating Board. These crimes are punishable by a fine of not more than $25 to the purchaser or renter. A retail business that sells or rents restricted video games to the public shall post a clearly visible sign that alerts consumers of the crime and the penalty created under this bill. Establishments must post sign stating persons under 17 cannot rent or purchase AO or M games. |
7/31/06 - Overturned by United States District Court, District of Minnesota. Attorney General Mike Hatch plans to appeal.
6/1/06 - Signed into law by governor
House 5/18/06 - Passed amended version; back to Senate for concurrence on amendments 4/10/06 - Passed. To House 3/01/06 - Received SF0785 from Senate, referred to Public Safety Policy and Finance 5/23/05 - Returned to Public Safety Policy and Finance 4/11/05 - Second reading 4/4/05 - Reported to House without recommendation 2/24/05 - Introduced; referred to Public Safety Policy and Finance
Senate: 5/20/06 - Passed 5/19/06 - Committee of 3 appointed to review house amendments 5/23/05 - Passed senate - 53/10 to House 3/10/05 - Second reading 3/8/05 - Passed Committee 2/7/05 - Introduced; referred to Crime Prevention and Public Safety |
Click here to see the full opinion of the judge in this case.
Click here to see a summary with some notes by the summarizer.
NOTE: The fine is on the renter or purchaser, not the establishment |
|
HF1492
SF1140 |
Hornstein, Osterman, Clark
Pappas,Knutson McGinn,Skoglund, Moua
|
A person under the age of 17 who knowingly rents or purchases a restricted video game (rated AO or M) is guilty of a petty misdemeanor and is subject to a fine of not more than $25. |
HOUSE 5/9/2003 - SF1140 Received from Senate and referred to Judiciary Policy and Finance Committee 5/7/2003 - House version introduced and referred to Judiciary Policy and Finance Committee
SENATE 5/8/2003 - Passed 53-8 4/9/2003 - Committee report - pass as amended 3/26/2003 - First reading, referred to Crime Prevention and Public Safety
|
This is the first bill introduced in any of the states
that addresses the juveniles who rent or purchase the games, rather than the
adults supplying the games.
|
|
HF0713
SF0035 |
Hornstein, Osterman, Davnie, Johnson, J., Kohls
Pappas,Scheid, Sparks,Marty |
No person may sell or rent a restricted video game (rated AO or M) to a person under 17 years of age. A person who violates is guilty of a misdemeanor. |
3/6/03 - First House reading and referred to Commerce,
Jobs and Economic Development Committee 1/10/03 - First Senate reading and referred to Commerce and Utilities |
|
|
HF2271 SF 1756
|
McGuire Pappas
|
Requires the department of children, families, and learning to prepare a report on effective ways to control juvenile access to violent video games; requiring a scientific study on how violent video games encourage aggressive acts by juveniles. |
3/28/01 House version introduced and referred to Family and Early Childhood Education Committee 3/15/01 Senate version introduced and referred to Education Committee |
|
|
HF2310 SF1747 |
McGuire Pappas (3 cosponsors) |
Bans sale or rental of certain video games to children Prohibits the public showing, display, or other exhibition of certain video games in specified places. |
3/28/01 House version introduced and referred to commerce, jobs, and economic development committee 3/15/01 Senate version Introduced and referred to commerce committee |
|
Minnesota legislative web
page: http://www.leg.state.mn.us/
MISSISSIPPI
|
Bill No.(s) |
Sponsor |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
SB2131 |
Tollison, Gray |
Prohibits sale or rental of games rated "M" or "AO" by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board to persons under 18 years of age. Must make available most recent listings video game ratings. Fines of $100 to $500. |
2/1/05 - Died in committee 1/7/05 - Referred to Judiciary |
|
|
SB2048 |
Tollison, Gray |
Prohibits sale of violent video games to persons under 18 years of age. |
2/14/02 - died on calendar 1/8/02 - referred to judiciary |
|
Mississippi legislative
web page: http://www.ls.state.ms.us/
|
Bill No.(s) |
Sponsor |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
HB1467 |
Harris LeVota |
Revises unlawful transactions with a child by making it a crime to sell or rent a video game to a child when the video game has been rated mature or adults only by the Entertainment Software Rating Board |
1/26/06 - Introduced, referred to Crime Prevention and Public Safety |
|
|
HB442 |
Pratt Dusenberg |
No offender while confined in any correctional center of the department shall be permitted to have on such offender's person, in such offender's cell, or in such offender's immediate possession, any type of video game. Such video games shall be considered contraband under the rules and regulations of the department and shall be confiscated |
2/16/05 - Introduced; referred to Corrections and Public Institutions |
NOTE: This applies to all video games. In January 2005, Missouri Governor Matt Blunt signed an executive order prohibiting all video games in Missouri prisons, after newspapers reported that prisoners were playing violent video games. This bill will put the executive order into the statues. |
|
HB390 |
Harris Walton |
The bill makes it a class A misdemeanor to sell or rent a video game rated M (mature) or AO (adults only) to a person under the age of 17. Retailers must post signs explaining the rating system and provide on-site, informational brochures. Fines up to $5,000 for repeated violations. |
2/10/05 - Introduced; referred to Crime Prevention and Public Safety |
|
|
St Louis County Ordinance # 20,193 |
Wagener |
Unlawful to rent, or make available violent video games without parental consent |
6/3/03 Law overturned by Federal Court of Appeals 4/2002 Legal Appeal was upheld by the US District Court, Eastern Division, Missouri 9/2000 Passed |
The second Court of Appeals ruled that video games have the same protections as paintings, movies, and books, and that lawmakers didn't make a convincing case that violent games were harmful enough to justify regulation. St. Louis is appealing the ruling.
The ruling was challenged by the Interactive Digital Software Association (IDSA). The first appeals court's reasoning in the case was the following: 1) video games are "games", rather than speech and are no more subject to First Amendment protection than a game of Bingo would be; and 2) even if they were considered speech, Commercial speech (as opposed to political speech) is not protected if a jurisdiction can prove it harmful to a portion of the population.
For a brief explanation of commercial vs political speech in the First Amendment, see http://www.mediaandwomen.org/firstamendment.html
|
Missouri legislative web
page: http://www.moga.state.mo.us/
MONTANA
None known
NEBRASKA
Current Session 2005/2006
None known
NEVADA
None known
NEW HAMPSHIRE
None known
New Hampshire legislative
web site: http://www.state.nh.us/
NEW JERSEY
Current Session: 2006/2007
|
Bill No.(s) |
Sponsors/Cosponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
A4358 |
Stender Bramnick |
Bans sale and rental of violent and sexually explicit video games to minors |
6/30/05 - Introduced |
NOTE: This one differs from A630 in that it does not rely on manufacturer's ratings. |
|
SR80 |
McNamara Cody (18 cosponsors) |
Condemns production and sale of JFK reloaded, and urges all citizens to reject the game |
12/13/04 - Introduced, Referred to Senate State Government Committee |
|
|
A2921 |
Wolfe Holzapfel |
Prohibits sale or rental of a mature rated video game to persons under 18, and requires ratings on all games |
5/27/04 - Introduced, Referred to Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee |
NOTE: Last Session: A3255 |
|
S1471 |
Ciesla Palaia |
Prohibits sale or rental of mature rated video games to persons under 18 without parental permission |
4/29/04 - Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee |
NOTE: Last Session: S2194 |
|
A630 |
Stender |
Prohibits sale or rental of mature rated video games to
persons under 18 without parental permission |
1/13/04 -Introduced, Referred to Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee |
NOTE: Last session A2944 |
|
AR78 |
Wolfe, Holzapfel |
Memorialized Congress and the President to enact HR669, which prohibits the sale or rental of violent video games to minors |
1/13/04 - Introduced, Referred to Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee |
NOTE: Last session HR317 |
|
AR317
SR163 |
Wolfe, Holzapfel
Ciesla |
Memorializes Congress and President to enact HR669 prohibiting sale or rental of adult video games to minors. |
· 6/16/2003 House Introduced, Referred to Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee
· 6/16/2003 Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety and Veterans' Affairs Committee |
See information on HR669 under United States Congress section. |
|
A3255
S2194 |
Kean
Palaia, Bennett
|
Prohibits selling or renting a video game unless the official rating of the video game by the Entertainment Software Rating Board is clearly displayed. Unlawful for a person to sell or rent to a person under age 17 any video game clearly designated as rated for mature audiences and to a person under age 18 a video game clearly designated for adults only. ID required Maximum penalty $250
|
· 2/3/2003 House introduced, Referred to Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee
· 1/9/2003 Senate introduced, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety and Veterans' Affairs Committee |
Wording nearly identical to A2944.
|
|
A2944 |
Guear, Stender, Friscia |
Requires video game ratings to be clearly displayed. Prohibits sale or rental of video games rate for mature audiences to minors without authorization from a guardian. Requires ID to purchase or rent mature-rated video games. Fines up to $250.
|
10/26/02 - Introduced and referred to Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee |
|
|
A762
|
Zecker
|
This bill would make it a disorderly persons offense for any person to place a coin or token-operated arcade-type electronic game involving the simulated use of a deadly weapon in a place generally accessible to persons under age 18. |
4/23/01 - Bill Withdrawn
1/11/00 - Introduced And Referred To Assembly Consumer Affairs and Regulated Professions Committee |
Cick here for text of bill.
|
|
A2849
|
Jones
|
It would require operators of coin-operated video games to label and partition those containing "harmful graphics" and prohibit persons under age 17 from viewing or playing them without parental supervision. Off-limits games would have to be conspicuously identified and placed at least 10 feet from games that are not prohibited for persons younger than 17. |
11/9/00 - Reported 2nd Reading
10/12/00 - Introduced And Referred To Assembly Consumer Affairs and Regulated Professions Committee |
Click here for text of bill. Click here for report of Consumer Affairs and Regulated Professions Committee |
|
S1745 |
Kosco, Allen (1 cosponsor) |
Requires that businesses which sell and rent such games at retail do so in accordance with the age-based ratings of the Entertainment Software Ratings Board. |
6/7/01 Introduced And Referred To Senate Law and Public Safety Committee |
Click here for text of bill.
|
NEW
MEXICO
None known
NEW YORK
Current session 2005/2006
|
Bill No.(s) |
Sponsor(s) |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
S5160
A7470 |
Senate: Andrews Breslin, House: Greene |
Prohibits the sale to minors of certain rated video games containing a rating that reflects content of various degrees of profanity, racist stereotypes or derogatory language, and/or actions toward a specific group of persons. |
Senate: 4/18/05 - Introduced; referred to Consumer Protection
House: 4/18/05 - Introduced; referred to Committee on Economic Development, Job Creation, Commerce and Industry |
NOTE: This does not specify that violence be a criteria.
NOTE: Very similar to SO2710, below. |
|
S4226
A7261 |
Senate: Andrews Breslin,
House: Greene |
Prohibits sale of games with "Mature or Violent" ratings to persons under 18. Mature or Violent games must be displayed in a restricted area. |
Senate: 4/12/05- Introduced; referred to Consumer Protection House: 04/12/2005 - Introduced; referred to consumer affairs and protection |
|
|
A5965 |
Kolb Reilich, |
Prohibits the sale of video games containing sexually explicit or violent depictions to minors such as those that glamorize the commission of a violent crime, suicide, sodomy, rape, incest, bestiality, or sado-masochism; requires affixing of warning labels on such video games; provides violations of such provisions shall be a civil penalty and a violation as defined in the penal law; directs sellers of such video games to restrict access to such recordings by storage in a sealed and locked container behind a service counter or in an area inaccessible by the general public; requires sellers to make copies of certain video games available for examination. |
3/3/05 - Introduced; referred to Consumer Affairs and Protection |
|
|
S2715
A4464 |
Senate: Bablioni Lavalle, House: DiNapoli Markey, |
The law: |
Senate: 2/24/05 - Introduced; referred to Finance.
House: 2/10/05 - Introduced; referred to Governmental Operations |
NOTE: This outlaws first person shooter games at arcades for persons under 16, regardless of their rating. |
|
S2710 |
Bablioni Hannon
|
Prohibits the sale to minors of certain rated video games containing a rating that reflects content of various degrees of profanity, racist stereotypes or derogatory language, and/or actions toward a specific group of persons. |
2/24/05 - Introduced; referred to Consumer Protection |
NOTE: This does not specify that violence be a criteria.
NOTE: Very similar to SO5160, above.
|
|
S2711 |
Bablioni Hannon
|
Prohibits the sale of mature and
violent video games to minors, and provides |
2/24/05 - Introduced; referred to Consumer Protection |
|
|
A4357 |
Weprin Mltspnsor: Alfano |
Prohibits persons under 18 to play violent point-and-shoot games at commercial establishments |
2/9/05 - Introduced; referred to Consumer Affairs and Protection |
NOTE: This is regardless of the game's rating |
|
S2327 |
Volker |
Prohibits the sale to minors of video games containing sexually explicit or violent depictions. |
1/7/04 - Referred to Consumer Protections 2/25/03 - Referred to Consumer Protection |
|
|
A3571 |
Weprin |
Prohibits persons under 18 from playing violent video games in public places that includes a point and shoot mechanism |
1/7/04 - Referred to Consumer Affairs and Protection 2/6/03 - Referred to Consumer Affairs and Protection |
|
|
A3780A |
Kolb Nesbitt McDonald Mills Acampora Spano (12 Cosponsors) |
Prohibits sale or rental of video games which are pornographic or promote violence or illegal drug use to minors; requires warning labels on video games |
1/7/04 - Referred to Consumer Affairs and Protection 5/1/03 amended and recommitted to consumer affairs and protection 2/10/03 - referred to Consumer Affairs and Protection |
|
|
A3999 |
DiNapoli Markey Clark Garrozza Destitio Smith (16 Cosponsors) |
Establishes the advisory council on interactive media and youth violence; requires the rating of video games and prohibits access to certain video games to persons under 18; establishes the parent/teacher anti-violence awareness program; and creates the parent/teacher anti-violence awareness fund. |
1/7/04 - Referred to Governmental Operations 2/11/03 - Referred to Governmental Operations for full history see A6946 and S855 below |
|
|
A6946 S855 |
DiNapoli Balboni |
Establishes the advisory council on interactive media and youth violence; requires the rating of video games and prohibits access to certain video games to persons under 18; establishes the parent/teacher anti-violence awareness program; and creates the parent/teacher anti-violence awareness fund. |
House: Replaced in 2003 by
A3999 2/21/02 - Amended and
recommitted to Governmental Operations 3/6/01 - Referred to
Governmental Operations 2000 - Referred to
Consumers 1999 - Referred to
Consumers Senate: 6/20/01 Passed senate and
delivered to assembly 6/20/01 Referred to
governmental operations 2/13/01 Amended and
recommitted to finance 1/10/01 - Referred to
finance
|
|
NORTH
CAROLINA
Current Session 2005/2006
|
Bill No.(s) |
Co-Sponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
SB 2 |
Boseman, Julie 21 Cosponsors |
Prohibits the dissemination of obscene and graphically violent video games to minors and to require video game retailers to inform consumers that a video game rating system is available |
|
|
NORTH
DAKOTA
Current Session: 2005/2006
None known
OHIO
Current Session: 2005/2006
None known
OKLAHOMA
|
Bill No.(s) |
Sponsor(s) |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
HB 3004 |
Morgan |
HB 3004 expands the definition of
"harmful to minors" to include violent video games. Misdemeanor. |
6/10/2006 - Signed by Governor 5/24/2006 - Amended version passed House Unanimously.
4/24/2006 - Amended version passed Senate Unanimously. To House. 3/16/2006 – Passed House Unanimously 3/10/2006 – Authored by Senator Coffee 3/10/2006 – Passed Committee 2/6/2006 – Introduced, to Corrections and Criminal Justice |
Industry will challenge in court |
|
SB 1651 |
Coffee, Glen |
Create a create a Violence Prevention Education Week, and would also authorize the Dept of Education to create a special website to give parents and others more information about content of violent images in films, TV programs and video games. |
3/20/02 Passed senate, referred to House Education Committee |
|
|
SB 707 |
|
Establishes the Blue Ribbon Task Force on Protection of Children from Violence in the Media |
May 2001 - Signed into law by Governor Keating |
To read a copy of a news article on the Task Force Findings, click here. To view the entire report, click here, then click on "Reports and Publications", then "Legislative Studies", then "Index", then "Final Report". |
|
SB46 |
Senate: Crutchfield House: McCarter Piatt |
Expands definition of harmful matter to include video games (primarily for sexual content - see note) |
5/24/01 - Signed into law by governor 5/21/01 - Joint version passed 5/17/01 - Passed House 3/20/01 - Do pass Criminal Justice, Amended 3/1/01 - to Criminal Justice 2/27/01 Passed Senate, to House 2/5/01 - Introduced, to Appropriations |
NOTE: This amends an existing law defining the types of information that can be considered harmful matter to include video games. It is mostly directed at sexual matter, and violence is only included if it is considered sadomasochistic violence. It also does not address whether, at this time, video games contain harmful matter. |
|
HB1121 |
Winchester |
It shall be unlawful for any person within this state to sell or rent to any person under eighteen (18) years of age any video game with a high-violence content. (Misdeameanor) |
2/5/01 - Introduced, to Criminal Justice |
|
|
SB757 |
SENATE: Pruitt Martin Riley HOUSE: Smith (Hopper) Winchester Nations |
It shall be unlawful for any person to sell or rent to any person under seventeen (17) years of age any video game with a high-violence content or to purchase any video game with a high-violence content on behalf of any person under seventeen (17) years of age. (Misdeameanor) |
3/8/01 - Introduced in House, to Criminal Justice 3/6/01 - Passed Senate, to House 2/21/01 - Do pass, Committee on Appropriations 2/5/01 - Introduced, to appropriations |
NOTE: This law also prevents purchasing a game FOR someone under 17 years of age, a clause not found in most of the other similar bills. |
OREGON
Current session: 2005/2006
|
Bill No.(s) |
Sponsors/Cosponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
SB0400 |
Messerle, Deckert Representatives Brown, Krieger, Verger, Hunt
|
Prohibits owner of video game arcade from allowing person under 18 years of age to operate violent video games. Punishes violation by maximum imprisonment of one year, $5,000 fine, or both. Refers Act to people for their approval or rejection at special election held on same date as next primary election.
|
· 08/27/03 In committee upon adjournment
· 02/17/03 Referred to Judiciary.
· 02/12/03 Introduction and first reading. Referred to President's desk.
|
This bill is unique among the bills introduced in the states, in that it refers the decision to popular vote. |
|
HJR 21 |
Schrader, Williams |
Urges owners of video arcades to restrict children's access to violent video games. Encourages use of rating system that identifies violent video games |
Multiple actions between Feb and July 7/2/01 Signed by speaker of house, president of senate, and filed with secretary of state 2/2/01 First reading |
Click here for text of resolution. |
|
HJR 69 |
Verger |
Urges owners of video arcades to restrict children's access to violent video games. Encourages use of rating system that identifies violent video games |
7/7/01 - In committee on adjournment 5/14/01 Referred to Business Labor and Consumer Affairs 5/10/01 First reading
|
This is the resolution that was introduced by Danielle Shimotakahara, a middle school student. Click here for full text of resolution. |
|
SB59 |
Messerle |
Prohibits owner of video game arcade from allowing person under 18 years of age to operate violent video games. Punishes violation by maximum imprisonment of one year, $5,000 fine, or both. |
7/7/01 - In committee on adjournment 2/19/01 - Public hearing held 1/9/01 - Referred to Business, Labor, and Economic Development 1/8/01 - First Reading |
Click here for text of bill. |
PENNSYLVANIA
Current Session 2005/2006
|
Bill No.(s) |
Sponsors/Cosponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
| HB688 |
Melio 45 Cosponsors |
A Resolution expressing support for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund campaign to discourage adults from purchasing or allowing children to access "25 to Life," a video game that displays horrific violence against police officers and innocent bystanders. |
4/5/06 - Passed 196/0 4/4/06 - Introduced |
|
|
Waters |
Directs the Children and Youth Committee to investigate the effects of violent interactive video games on the children. |
3/29/05- Introduced and referred to Committee on Children and Youth |
|
|
|
SB38 |
Wagner, Wonderling, Logan, Costa, Rafferty, Orie |
An Act amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for the offense of selling or furnishing violent video or computer games to minors. First offense is a summary violation, subsequent offenses are third degree misdemeanors. |
1/13/05 - Introduced and referred to Judiciary |
|
|
HR279 |
Waters, Bishop, James,Myers, Thomas,Belfanti, Casorio, Creighton, Daley, Deweese, D. Evans, Goodman,Grucela, Gruitza, Harhai, Horsey, Josephs, Kirkland, Lagrotta,Laughlin, Pallone, Readshaw, Shaner, Tigue,Walko, Washington,Youngblood,Williams |
A Resolution directing the Children and Youth Committee to investigatethe effects of violent interactive video games on the children of thisCommonwealth. |
5/12/2003 - Referred to Rules |
This bill is unique among the bills introduced in the states, in that it refers the decision to popular vote. |
|
SB822 |
Wagner, Logan, Tartaglione, Costa, Musto, Orie,Rafferty, Mowery, Wonderling,Rhoades. |
A
person commits a summary offense if the person sells, rents or otherwise
provides for use for a charge any violent video or computer game to a minor.
A person commits a misdemeanor of the third degree for a second or subsequent
violation of this subsection. |
6/17/2003 - Referred to Judiciary |
|
|
HB1672 SB960 |
LaGrotta
(33 cosponsors) Wagner (13 cosponsors) |
Prohibits selling or furnishingviolent interactive video games to minors.
|
House: 6/15/99 - Referred to Judiciary Senate: 5/10/99 - Referred to Judiciary |
|
RHODE
ISLAND
Current Legislative Session: 2005/2006
None known
SOUTH
CAROLINA
Current Legislative Session: 2005/2006
|
Bill No.(s) |
Sponsors/Cosponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
H 4148 |
Davenport Hamilton |
SECTION 1. Article 1, Chapter 13, Title 16 of the 1976 Code, is amended by
adding: |
5/1/03 - Introduced, referred to Judiciary |
NOTE: This law addresses video game violence to law enforcement officers only. This also does not limit the prohibition to minors only. |
Current Legislative Session: 2005
None known
Current
Legislative Session: 2005/2006
|
Sponsors/Cosponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
|
HB4053 |
Kilby Winningham |
Makes sale or rental of extremely violent videogames a Class C misdemeanor; defines extremely violent videogames |
Senate: 4/11/2006 - Withdrawn 3/1/2006 – Introduced, to Judiciary House: 3/1/2006 – Introduce, to delayed bills committee |
This bill does not ony address minors, but actually makes sale of the violent games illegal to anyone. |
|
SJR 0597 |
Burchett Kyle |
Statement of Intent or Position - Endorses concept of limiting motion picture previews to advertising motion pictures of same rating as feature presentation. |
4/17/2002 Ref. To Judiciary 4/10/2002 Adopted, Ayes 33 Nays 0 4/2/2002 Rec. For Pass. ref. to: S. Cal. Comm. 3/27/2002 Referred to S. C,L&A Comm. 3/18/2002 Introduced |
|
|
HB2187 SB2213 |
Bunch, Black
Miller J, Williams |
Tennesee Code 39-17-914a : It is unlawful for a person to display for sale or rental a visual depiction, including a videocassette tape or film, video game, computer software game, or a written representation, including a book, magazine or pamphlet, which contains material harmful to minors anywhere minors are lawfully admitted. |
House and Senate: 6/20/2000 - Passed and signed into law by Governor 1/20/2000 - Introduced |
This bill was amended. The original bill would have prohibited sale of violent media. |
|
HB2158 SB2232 |
Bunch Miller |
Provide a consistent and comprehensive system for labeling violent content in audio and video materials. This system would be designed so that the public would be aware of the type and intensity of the violence depicted in such products, as well as the appropriateness of a child viewing or listening to such materials. Authorizes manufacturers and producers of interactive video game products and services to submit to the FTC a joint proposal for labeling the violent content of such products. |
House: 4/5/00 - Action def. in s/c Civil Practice of JUD to 01/01/01 3/14/00 - Rec. for Pass. if Am. ref. to: Judiciary Committee 1/24/00 - Referred to Gov. Operations Committee 1/20/00 - Introduced Senate: 2/15/2000 - Assigned to Gen. Sub. Of S. C,L&A Comm. 1/24/2000 - Referred to S. Com and Labor Committee 1/20/2000
- Introduced |
|
Current
Legislative Session: 2005
|
Sponsors/Cosponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
|
Goolsby |
Prohibits selling or renting sexually explicit or violent video games to minors, or allowing them access in a video arcade. Requires retailers post signs explaining the rating system, and include on video game packaging a conspicuous warnint if the video game contains violent or sexually explicit content. Violation is a misdemeanor. Bill gives no definition of violent or sexually explicit. |
2/10/05 - First reading; referred to Business and Industry |
|
|
|
HB1870 |
Riddle |
Establishes a state rating system and creates a list of games containing scenes or depictions of graphic violence or strong sexual content. Prohibits sale or rental of these games to minors.
|
3/25/03 - Introduced, referred to Business and Industry |
|
|
Bill No.(s) |
Sponsors/Cosponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
HB257 |
Hogue |
Amends the definition of material that is harmful to a
minor to include inappropriate violence |
3/1/2006 – Senate declined to vote 2/14/2006 – Passed House 2/14/2006 Substitute Recommended by Standing Comm 1/20/2006 To standing committee 1/16/2006 -Introduces |
NOTE: Currently the "harmful to minors" definition consists of sexual content only. This expands the definition. |
Current Legislative Session: 2004/2005
None known
|
Bill No.(s) |
Sponsors/Cosponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
| SB368 | Marsh III | Video Games rated M (Mature) or AO (Adults Only) must have labels at least 3 inches square |
2/8/06 - Continued to 2007 in
Committee 1/11/06- Filed, referred to Committee for Courts of Justice |
This is a BIG label for the current size of video game packaging. It would cover over half of the packing - although likely the industry would respond by making the packaging bigger. |
|
HB397 |
Amundson |
Makes the sale, rental, loan or commercial display of a violent video or computer game to a juvenile a Class 1 misdemeanor. |
1/14/04 - Introduced and referred to Committee for Courts of Justice |
|
WASHINGTON
Current legislative cycle:
2005/2006
|
Sponsors/Cosponsors |
Summary Description |
Progress |
Notes |
|
|
Dickerson |
A person may maintain an action for personal injury
or wrongful death against a manufacturer or retailer of violent video or computer
games if the manufacturer or retailer has distributed, sold, or rented a
violent video or computer game to a person under the age of seventeen and the
game was a factor in creating conditions that assisted or encouraged the
person to cause injury or death to another person. |
3/2/05 JJFL - Majority; do pass. Minority; without
recommendation. Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. |
This is a first of it's kind in that it specifically allows for legal action to be taken against a manufacturer or retailer if a crime is committed against a person, with an assumption that video game play influenced the perpetrator |
|
|
Roberts |
Requires video game retailers to post signs in prominent locations to inform consumers about the existence of a nationally recognized video game system. Requires retailers to provide rating system information to customers, upon request, with each purchase or rental of a video game. |
4/28/05 - Signed by Governor |
Note that nowhere in the bill does it require that the actual ratings be posted. |
|
|
HB2595 |
Dickerson |
Requires the Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development, for a limited time, to conduct periodic monitoring of a sample group of retail businesses on compliance with industry ratings for the sale and rental of violent video games. |
2/5/04 - Referred to Rules committee for second reading 2/3/04 - Passed committee 1/16/04 First reading, referred to Juvenile Justice & Family |
This is the first bill proposed to monitor retailer enforcement (which is voluntary) of industry ratings. |
|
SB8042 |
Hargrove, Stevens, Carlson, B. Sheldon, Spanel, Rasmussen |
Requests Congress to enact, and the President sign into law, a prohibition against television advertising of violent video and computer games that are rated "M" (Mature) or "For Adults Only." |
1/26/04 First reading. Referred to Committee on Children & Family Services & Corrections |
|
|
SB6080 |
22 Sponsors |
Provides that a realtor who sells, rents, or permits to be sold or rented to a minor, a violent video game that depicts violence against a public law enforcement officer is guilty of a Class 1 Civil infraction. Directs the office of superintendent of public instruction to convene a task force to address the findings of the legislature as stated in this act and to help meet the goals of the curbing of hostile and antisocial behavior of Washington minors and increased respect for public law enforcement officers. |
1/12/04 Reintroduced and retained in present status 4/21/03 - First reading, referred to Children & Family Services & Corrections |
See court decision on SHB 1009 below. |
|
HB1009 SHB1009 |
15 Sponsors |
Provides that a person who sells, rents, or permits to be sold or rented to a minor, a violent video game that depicts violence against a public law enforcement officer is guilty of a misdemeanor. |
7/15/2004 - Law struck down by the United States District Court, Western District of Washington court. Full text. 7/10/03 - US District Court Judge Robert Lanik issues a temporary injunction blocking implementation (the law is being challenged by the Entertainment Software Association). Hearing set for June 2004. 5/20/03 - Signed into law by Governor. Chapter 365, 2003 Laws. Effective
date 4/24/03 SENATE - President Signed 4/4/03 SENATE - 42 Yeas, 7 Nays ; do pass 3/20/03 SENATE - First Reading, referred to Children & Family Services & Corrections 4/23/03 HOUSE - Speaker Signed 3/18/03 HOUSE - Third reading, substitute bill passed 81 Yeas, 16 Nays 1/30/03 HOUSE - Substitute bill passed 1/13/03 HOUSE - First reading, referred to Juvenile Justice & Family law
|
This law was successfully challenged by the Entertainment Software Association who has successfully challenged similar laws in St. Louis, MO and the Indianapolis, IN. |
|
HB 2363
|
Dickerson; Delvin; Hurst; O'Brien; Tokuda;
|
Provides that a person who sells, rents, or permits to be sold or rented, any violent video or computer game to any minor is guilty of a misdemeanor. |
Died in committee Jan 16, 02 - First reading, referred to Juvenile Justice & Family Law. |
|
None
known
Current legislative cycle:
2006/2007
|
House: Travis, Albers, Berceau, Fields, Gronemus, McCormick, Ott Sheridan, Zepnick
cosponsored by Senators Miller, Roessler Grothman. |
Expands current Wisconsin Law that makes it illegal to provide harmful material to children to include video games that depict nudity, sexually explicit conduct,sadomasochism, or physical torture or brutality if the game is harmful to children. |
5/11/06 - Died in committee 8/30/05 -Read first time and referred to committee on Criminal Justice and Homeland Security |
|
None
known