Connecticut representative DebraLee Hovey proposed a tax on video games featuring mature themes to the state legislature yesterday.
Representative Hovey, whose district includes Newtown CT, location of the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook elementary, wants a 10 percent tax on all games rated "Mature" by the ESRB. The proposal is currently under review by the state legislature's revenue and bonding committee.
In the weeks since the Sandy Hook elementary shooting, numerous state and local governments have proposed measures to reign in the sale of violent games. A Missouri state representative proposed a similar tax, which was rejected by committee. Towns in Connecticut and Massachusetts have suggested "buyback" programs where consumers could get money back in exchange for turning in their violent video games. One such program, started in a community near Newtown, was cancelled before being carried out.
Hovey told WFSB she hopes the money generated by the tax be used to better fund the state's mental health programs. Despite her seemingly noble intention, local support for the idea seems thin, acording to the report.
