The U.S. Supreme Court stands ready to rule on California's right to ban the sale and rental of mature games to minors, and their decision could have big implications for the future. California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger believed strongly his his state's 2005 law that required retailers to label games and prevent sales to minors. A federal judge blocked the law in 2006, though, and its been waiting on a nod from the nation's highest court before it could go into effect ever since.
"I signed this important measure to ensure parents are involved in determining which video games are appropriate for their children," Schwarzenegger said at the time, according to Ars Technica. "By prohibiting the sale of violent video games to children under the age of 18 and requiring these games to be clearly labeled, this law would allow parents to make better informed decisions for their kids. I will continue to vigorously defend this law and protect the well-being of California's kids."
Titled Schwarzenegger v. Video Software Dealers Association, the Court's call in the case will decide what role states can or can't play in censoring games for youngsters. Schwarzenegger had been in line pending a ruling on U.S. v. Stevens, where the Court recently stuck down a federal law banning video depictions of animal cruelty. California's case, meanwhile, will be on the docket to be heard and decided during the Court’s next Term, which begins on October 4.
Do you think California should be able to halt mature game sales to minors? How do you expect the Supreme Court to rule? Sound off in the comment section below.