Video Game Voters Network

Thank Utah's Governor for Vetoing Anti-Video Game Bill

Over the past several weeks, VGVN's Utah members worked hard to prevent the passage of HB 353, the anti-video game bill which would have amended the state's Truth in Advertising law and inhibited the promotion of the ESRB rating system. The bill received national attention and was widely criticized (Ars Technica, PSPWorld, PCWorld, Macworld).

Despite hundreds of letters sent, the bill passed both the State House and Senate. The focus then shifted to Utah Governor Jon Huntsman. With over 700 letters sent to the Governor's office, VGVN members raised their voices against the bill and demanded a veto. Their voices were heard!

Send a letter and thank the Governor for his veto for video games.

Last night, Governor Huntsman heard Utah's VGVN members and he vetoed HB 353 because of concerns about violating the Constitution and undermining the ESRB rating system. Read his veto letter [PDF] to the legislature. Video games are too often the target of unnecessary legislation, so let's now thank an elected official who stands up for what's right, and comes to our defense.

Utah's VGVN members made this veto for video games possible. The bill's sponsor, state Rep. Michael Morley, in a Utah newspaper called VGVN members "crazies" for opposing the bill, but he now points to the members as the reason for the veto.

Unfortunately the fight is not over as the state legislature can still override his veto. We'll be sure to keep you updated as events unfold, but for now, a big thanks to our Utah members, and to you for being ready when the time anti-video game threats come to your state and city.