As has been the case in several other states introducing laws to legally enforce mature-game certification, Californian lawmakers have found their own piece of legislation challenged in the courts, the Video Software Dealers Association and Entertainment Software Association having filed a suit challenging the imposing of 1,000 USD fines upon retailers caught peddling their wares to minors. The law was passed in response to scandals like the Hot Coffee mod, but similar legislation has been on the cards for some time. Countries like the UK, and already have legally enforceable ratings systems in place for videogames.

The suit in question has been filed against Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, state Attorney General Bill Lockyer and local officials, and alleges that the new law breaches the first amendment guaranteeing freedom of speech. "It is not up to any or the government to set standards for what kids can see or do; that is the role of parents," president Doug Lowenstein commented.

"I believe strongly that we must give parents the tools to help them protect their children," Schwarzenegger replied to the suit. "I will do everything in my power to preserve this new law and I urge the attorney general to mount a vigorous defence of California's ability to prevent the sale of these games to children."

Laws of this nature have in the past been over-turned by similar lawsuits, and this case will be viewed by the whole country with interest. What's your opinion on this situation?

By Luke Guttridge