    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1993, Book I)]
    [June 30, 1993]
    [Page 963]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Letter to Television Networks on Use of Program Violence Warnings
    June 30, 1993

    Dear Howard:
        I applaud the action taken today by CBS and by the other major
    broadcast networks to begin addressing the problem of violence on
    television. Millions of parents are rightly concerned that their
    children are exposed to far too many graphic pictures of murder and
    mayhem. The announcement of voluntary violence warnings is an important,
    commendable first step in dealing with this crucial issue.
        For the health of our society and the American family, we must
    continue to find ways to limit the excessive portrayal of violence in
    our television programming. In the past, the television industry has
    responded to public concerns and has dealt in a responsible manner with
    issues such as drug use, alcohol, and smoking. I encourage the broadcast
    industry, the creators and producers, as well as the advertisers who
    support network programming, to take full responsibility in limiting the
    amount of televised violence.
        Again, I commend the networks for this initial effort and encourage
    you to continue to find ways to make your programming suitable for the
    children and youth of this nation.
        Sincerely,

                                                                Bill Clinton

    Note: This letter was sent to Howard Stringer, president, CBS Broadcast
    Group. Similar letters were sent to Warren Littlefield, president, NBC
    Entertainment; George Vradenburg, executive vice president, Fox
    Television; Thomas S. Murphy, chairman of the board, Capital Cities-ABC;
    and Ted Turner, chairman of the board and president, Turner Broadcasting
    System.