The FCC: trying to make the case for restricting TV violence

The Federal Communications Commission is urging lawmakers to consider regulations that would restrict violent television programs to late evening. In a much-anticipated report, the FCC has concluded that the program ratings system and technology intended to help parents block offensive programs has failed to protect children from being regularly exposed to violence. It's also recommending that consumers be allowed to buy or subscribe to cable channels a la carte - either inidividually or in smaller bundles than they're presently being offered - so they have a greater say in what channels they do or do not want. Most cable and satellite providers currently offer dozens of channels as part of a package and the premium movie and sports channels are predominantly what's offered on a pick and choose basis.

The American Civil Liberties Union is opposed to such legislation, saying the government should not have to "parent the parents."

You can read more about the report and its recommendations by going here (though you may have to be a registered user of the New York Times web site).

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