Video Game Warning Labels Possible

As if the rating system and the ESRB weren't enough, a new bill in congress is set to put a cigarette like warning on every video game rated "T" (Teen) or higher. Rep. Joe Baca (D) introduced "The Video Game Health Labeling Act of 2009" last week and hopes it will pass through congress.

A representative for Rep. Baca issued the following statement in regards to this new bill:

The video game industry has a responsibility to parents, families, and to consumers - to inform them of the potentially damaging content that is often found in their products. They have repeatedly failed to live up to this responsibility. Meanwhile research continues to show a proven link between playing violent games and increased aggression in young people. American families deserve to know the truth about these potentially dangerous products.

We must hold the video game industry accountable and do everything in our power to ensure parents are aware of the detrimental effects that violent games can have before making decisions on which games are appropriate for their children to play. I am proud to introduce the Video Game Health Labeling Act of 2009, and am hopeful my legislation can work to stop the growing influence of violent media on America's children and youth.

Now, if you just read that last sentence again, you'll see the exact motivation of Mr. Baca. It's not about improving a ratings system, it's about censoring media. This happened with Manhunt 2 and will continue to happen with titles that are deemed racy by an uptight politician. I think it's embarrassing and appalling that these politicians keep using "the children" as an excuse. If parents in this country are too lazy to research a video game's content before buying it, and instead point fingers at the video game developers, then maybe congress should work on restricting the ease of becoming a parent.

Source: Game Politics