Congressman Joe Baca Wants Warning Labels on Videogames

Yep, another push for the idea that videogames cause violence in children. This time Congress Joe Baca (D-Rialto, CA.) is trying to pass a bill that every game with an ESRB-rating of T or worse must have this warning label on it: “WARNING: Excessive exposure to violent video games and other violent media has been linked to aggressive behavior.” “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,” said Rep. Baca. “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.” Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA) co-signed this bill. Truly very sad, as those of us who actually play games know that this idea is only an idea. According to a Texas A&M study, depression is bigger factor in youth-hostility than video games are. As legislation like this has failed before, let’s all hope this one fails as well. As always, if you care call your congressmen and tell them how you’d like them to vote on this.