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Write a Letter to the Presidential Candidates

Video Game Voters Network — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 13:53:00 PDT

Send the Presidential contenders a letter letting them know you vote and you're serious about stopping unconstitutional video game laws.

Unless you have been living under a rock the past few months, you know it's an election year. That means you have to hear a lot of politicians talk about their stances on issues. Fortunately, it also means you have an opportunity to share your views with them. They want your support and your votes, but before you give them that support, first make sure they deserve it.

Let the candidates know what issues are important to you, including ending the unconstitutional assault on our favorite form of entertainment - video games. Send a letter to all five candidates and let them know where you stand!

We must remind our elected officials and those who want to be elected that as voters, gamers, developers, parents, and caregivers we will not support video games being singled out and treated differently than movies, books and television. When we do stand up and fight, we win.

VGVN Voices Heard in Massachusetts; Now it is Arizona's Turn to Take Action

Video Game Voters Network — Thu, 3 Apr 2008 11:20:00 PDT

A BIG thank you goes out to all of the VGVN members in Massachusetts who stood up against HB 1423, an anti-video game bill. Now, VGVN members in Arizona must step up and help combat a new threat!

In the last two weeks, VGVN members in Massachusetts were alerted about a proposed measure, HB 1423, which would have criminalized the sale or rental of violent video games to minors (for more information read the report from G4). VGVN members in the Commonwealth responded en force and stood up for their rights. Hundreds of members sent letters opposing the bill and pressured elected officials in Massachusetts to do the right thing. This strong response contributed to the decision by the Massachusetts Legislature to table the bill for further study for one year. Thanks to all the VGVN members in the Bay State who helped halt this unconstitutional bill.

While we still face a possible future threat in Massachusetts, there is a new, more immediate battle before us in Arizona. Once again, a group of politicians are attempting to take away citizens' First Amendment rights. The bill, HB 2660, was recently introduced in the Arizona legislature and aims to circumvent the Constitution. If enacted, the measure would penalize video game developers and blame them for society's ills. This bill punishes individuals who produce or distribute so-called "dangerous" materials. The bill defines these materials as anything an accused individual might claim "drove" them to commit a felony or act of terrorism. This legislation is dangerous because it inhibits developers' creative expression and would restrict development of the computer and video games we enjoy. It is up to our VGVN Arizona members to stand up and stop this ridiculous legislation. Video games, like books and movies, are protected as free speech under the First Amendment -- in Massachusetts, Arizona and every other state!

How You Can Help:

If you are from Arizona, send a letter to your state Senator on the committees reviewing the bill.
If you know anyone in Arizona, tell them to take action to oppose HB 2660.

First Amendment Threatened by Arizona Bill

Video Game Voters Network — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 13:58:00 PDT

Once again, some politicians are attempting to take away our First Amendment rights. HB 2660 aims to circumvent the Constitution by penalizing video game developers and blaming them for society's ills. This bill punishes individuals who produce or distribute so called "dangerous" materials. The bill defines these materials as anything an accused individual might claim "drove" them to commit a felony or act of terrorism.

This legislation is dangerous because it inhibits developers' creative expression and hurts the computer and video games you enjoy. Video games, like books and movies, are protected as free speech under the First Amendment. If the courts ultimately find this bill unconstitutional, which they likely will, the measure is wasting valuable legislative time and your tax dollars.

The threats to your rights are clear.

If you are an Arizona resident, send a letter to the Arizona Senate committee members who are reviewing this and tell them to drop this unconstitutional bill.

If you have family and friends in Arizona, please spread the word.