Louisiana Videogame Law Put on Hold

Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco signed legislation (HB 1381) on June 15, which bans the sale or rental of violent video games to children under the age of 18. Under the law, violators would face fines of up to $2,000, one year in prison, or both. Six other states have tried to create and enforce similar legislation in the last five years, only to have each attempt struck down by the court. The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) and the Entertainment Merchants Association (EMA) requested and received a temporary restraining order the next day.

According to Doug Lowenstein, president of the ESA, "HB 1381 also directly undermines efforts legislators started after enactment of tax credit legislation less than a year ago designed to lure video game development and production to Louisiana to generate needed high-paying technology jobs". A hearing of the request by the ESA and the EMA for a preliminary injunction was scheduled for June 27.

On June 23, the ESA also filed suit against the state of Oklahoma, challenging similar new legislation in that state under which a parent may be made criminally liable for the sale or rental of violent video games to their child.

For copies of the Official ESA Press Releases, visit:

http://www.theesa.com/archives/2006/06/video_game_indu_5.php

http://www.theesa.com/archives/2006/06/video_game_indu_6.php

Volume IV

Louisiana Videogame Law Put on Hold