Rockefeller to Introduce Violence Bill Next Week

Would require violence research and report to FTC, FCC

By John Eggerton -- Broadcasting & Cable, 1/17/2013 2:05:38 PM

Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-W. Va.) plans to introduce his bill next week to direct the National Academy of Sciences to undertake a "comprehensive study" of the impact of violent content, including video games and programming, on children.

That announcement came following the president's release of his proposals for addressing violence, including calling on the Centers for Disease Control to conduct, and Congress to fund, research into the causes of violence.

"I think everyone can agree that the impact of violent content on our kids' wellbeing is an important issue, and I'm glad this new plan will take a close look at it.  I am working hard in the Senate to make sure this type of research -- which I have strongly backed throughout my career -- is available to inform our work on gun violence," he said of his proposal, which predates the president's initiatives.

According to Rockefeller's office, under the proposed bill:

• "The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) would be directed to conduct a comprehensive study and investigation of the connection between violent video games and violent video programming and harmful effects on children.

• "Specifically, NAS would examine whether violent video games/programming cause kids to act aggressively or otherwise hurt their wellbeing, and whether that effect is distinguishable from other types of media.  It also would look at the direct and long-lasting impact of violent content on a child's well-being.

• "With respect to violent video games, NAS must look at whether current or emerging aspects of games, like their interactive nature and the personal and vivid way violence is portrayed, have a unique impact on kids.

• "NAS must submit a report on its investigation to Congress as well as to the Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Communications Commission."