Christian Coalition: Thank God for ESRB Policies!

God may be deaf to pleads to end wars, world hunger and mega-catastrophes but not to prayers regarding keeping violent video games out of the hands of minors. According to Christian Brothers Investment Services (CBIS) and Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility (ICCR), majority of retailers have adopted policies that regulate the sales of unsuitable video games to minors.

Last year, ICCR came out with an outline of a retail guideline for the sale of violent video games. This year the coalition noted all retailers they surveyed stated that they:

• Have video game policies to restrict access by young teens to M-rated games
• Display signage about the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rating system
• Conduct employee training programs and ongoing education on the video game rating system for employees
• Have established a system to identify the age of the purchaser at the register

In addition, selected big retailers have enforced measures that’s minor-friendly. Target does not advertise Mature-rated games in teen publications and puts a prominent “M” on games advertised in store. Meanwhile, Best Buy does not advertise M television. GameStop includes store managersÂ’ compliance with video game sales policies in its manager evaluation process.

The coalition vows to continue to strengthen their efforts to prevent the sale and marketing of violent video games to children. Amen.

Via ICCR

God may be deaf to pleads to end wars, world hunger and mega-catastrophes but not to prayers regarding keeping violent video games out of the hands of minors. According to Christian Brothers Investment Services (CBIS) and Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility (ICCR), majority of retailers have adopted policies that regulate the sales of unsuitable video games to minors.

Last year, ICCR came out with an outline of a retail guideline for the sale of violent video games. This year the coalition noted all retailers they surveyed stated that they:

• Have video game policies to restrict access by young teens to M-rated games
• Display signage about the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rating system
• Conduct employee training programs and ongoing education on the video game rating system for employees
• Have established a system to identify the age of the purchaser at the register

In addition, selected big retailers have enforced measures that’s minor-friendly. Target does not advertise Mature-rated games in teen publications and puts a prominent “M” on games advertised in store. Meanwhile, Best Buy does not advertise M television. GameStop includes store managersÂ’ compliance with video game sales policies in its manager evaluation process.

The coalition vows to continue to strengthen their efforts to prevent the sale and marketing of violent video games to children. Amen.

Via ICCR