ESRB Unveils New Oklahoma Senator PSA

The ESRB, in conjunction with Oklahoma State Senator Glenn Coffee, has unveiled a new Public Service Announcement campaign to explain and encourage parents to use video game ratings, timed to coincide with the holiday shopping season. In the TV and radio ads, previewed for the news media at an Oklahoma City Blockbuster video rental store Tuesday morning, Senator Coffee encouraged parents to check game ratings when purchasing or renting them to ensure that it is appropriate for their children and family. The State Senator also encouraged parents to spend time with their children to ensure the choice of game was appropriate. The public service announcements are being provided to radio and television stations and cable providers in Oklahoma this month. As part of the campaign, the ESRB has also prepared a brochure providing additional information about its rating system. The brochure will also be available at Blockbuster stores, and the ESRB has also made the PSA available for viewing in its online media library. Said State Senator Coffee, “As a father, I know about the tough decisions parents face today about the media they allow into their homes. The simple fact is that there’s no substitute for parental involvement and responsibility." He continued, "It’s important that parents play an active role in choosing games for their children, just as it’s important for Oklahoma retailers to comply with their store policies that restrict the sale or rental of M-rated games to those under 17. ESRB ratings are an effective and informative resource that allows parents to decide if the video game their child wants is appropriate. I’m proud to be educating parents in our state about the tools at their disposal.”