As marketers are increasingly interested in advertising in video games, local lawmakers are pushing to restrict the sale of violent or sexually explicit video games to minors. Most recently, lawmakers
in the District of Columbia proposed that stores selling violent games to youngsters face fines of up to $10,000 and the loss of their business licenses. The measure is aimed at games like the "Grand
Theft Auto" and "Mortal Kombat" series, and the ultra-violent "Manhunt." Video games already have a rating system in place, created by the Entertainment Software Rating Board. Several other state and
local governments across the country have proposed similar measures, but courts have struck them down based on free speech laws.
--S.G.
