[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 106 (Friday, July 29, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1695]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




EXPRESSING SENSE OF THE HOUSE THAT THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION SHOULD 
 INVESTIGATE THE PUBLICATION OF THE VIDEO GAME ``GRAND THEFT AUTO: SAN 
                               ANDREAS''

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                               speech of

                          HON. STENY H. HOYER

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 25, 2005

  Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 376, which 
expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Federal 
Trade Commission should investigate the publication of the video game 
``Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas'' to determine whether the publisher 
deceived the Entertainment Software Ratings Board to avoid an ``Adults-
Only'' rating.
  I believe that the government should always tread lightly and 
carefully in taking action that evaluates the content of video games, 
music, movies, books and similar materials.
  I also believe that parents have the primary responsibility for 
evaluating and monitoring the content available to their children.
  However, the content industry--movie studios, television networks, 
record labels, book publishers, and video game developers--also has a 
responsibility to accurately, honestly and responsibly label and market 
their products.
  Thus, I believe it is appropriate and necessary for the Federal Trade 
Commission to inquire and investigate the development and marketing 
process for ``Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.''
  There is no question that pornographic material was embedded in this 
video game, and that it has been marketed to teenagers and sold in 
stores in every community in America. The developers and publishers of 
this video game owe an explanation. Were they aware that the game 
contained embedded scenes that would inevitably be revealed? And, did 
they purposely pursue a rating from the Entertainment Software Rating 
Board of ``Mature'' rather than ``Adults Only'' to ensure that the game 
could be sold teenagers and thus a broader market?
  This is the purpose of this investigation and this bill. Intentional 
deception must not go unpunished.

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