"Judge Halts Calif. Violent Video Game Law"

[GreenPartyVoter]

SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) - A federal judge has temporarily blocked a new state law banning the sale or rental of violent video games to minors, saying a lawsuit challenging the measure was likely to prevail on grounds of free speech.

In a ruling late Wednesday, U.S. District Court Judge Ronald Whyte granted a preliminary injunction sought by the Encino-based Video Software Dealers Association and the Washington, D.C.-based Entertainment Software Association.

The industry groups "were likely to succeed" in their lawsuit, the judge wrote.

At the least, he said, "serious questions are raised concerning the state's ability to restrict minors' First Amendment rights in connection with exposure to violent video games, including the question of whether there is a causal connection between access to such games and psychological or other harm to children."

http://apnews1.iwon.com/article/20051223/D8ELVIN0E.html

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

1. I'm A Bit Confused On This

I mean, I'm playing Grand Theft Auto San Andreas right now as a matter of fact, and love shootin the shit out of people. It's just a game. But regardless of my feelings on the subject, I'm confused why there couldn't be a law requiring adult consent to games of this nature's rental? I mean, if it can be done with violent movies and porn (nc17, R, etc) why not video games?

I'm confused on this one.

[SteppingRazor]

2. I have to agree with you -- somewhat...

I would question how they can get away with restricting movies, not question why they can't restrict the video games. :hi:

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

3. Ha! Tis True, Tis True

I hear ya and agree too. I was looking at it more from a legal standing on if the precedent has already been set for movies why is it illegal for games?

Hey, on that note, if the law is struck down could there then be a challenge to the law requiring it for movies? That would be interesting!

:hi:

[porphyrian]

4. At least some judges are sane.

I guess hearing cases long enough shows you what really causes people to act violently.