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Minnesota Violent Games Bill Becomes Law; ESA Retaliates

Minnesota Violent Games Bill Becomes Law; ESA Retaliates

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Tim Pawlenty, the governor in Minnesota, has signed into law a bill that will fine minors up to $25 for purchasing M or AO rated games. The law will go into effect on August 1 if the ESA cannot successfully overturn it, and they do plan to try. Here are the comments from ESA President Doug Lowenstein:

“The ESA is deeply disappointed by the actions of the Minnesota legislature and Governor Pawlenty. We believe that [this law] is unnecessary and will restrict the First Amendment rights of Minnesota’s citizens. To enact ‘feel good’ bills knowing they’re likely to be tossed by the courts is the very height of cynicism. The computer and video game industry intends to file suit in Minnesota federal district court shortly, asking that the state’s new video game law be overturned.”

“Six courts in five years, including the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals which governs Minnesota, have struck down similar laws, ruling that they were unconstitutional. This has resulted in legal costs of nearly one million dollars to the taxpayers of the states in which these bills were passed, and countless wasted hours spent by government officials attempting to defend the laws.”

“…We hope that sooner or later legislators and candidates will stop trying to seek headlines by subverting the constitution and frittering away desperately needed taxpayer dollars and instead enter into a constructive partnership to educate parents about the tools available so they, not government, can raise their kids as they see fit and buy the games that are right for their unique family…”

We will keep you posted as more unfolds on this story.

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