The tax on violent video games proposed by Oklahoma representative William Fourkiller has been rejected by the Oklahoma House Revenue and Tax Subcommittee.
https://kotaku.com/oklahoma-lawmaker-wants-anti-bullying-tax-on-video-game-5881448
Fourkiller’s proposal had been modified to focus on creating a task force looking into video games’ relationship to obesity and aggression. It was voted down 5-6.
In the minutes from the subcommittee meeting, State Representatives Pat Owenby and Mike Reynolds questioned the need to focus specifically on video games.
“It’s not a good idea. We could have a task force on a multitude of reasons children are obese.” said Rep. Reynolds.
“Why just video games?” asked Rep. Ownbey. “Why not French fries or rap music or movies?”
A good question! Though I’m not sure I can see the argument for rap music contributing to obesity. I know when I get crunk/hyphy, I burn lots of calories.
Notes from the A&B Subcommittee on Revenue and Taxation [Oklahoma Watchdog via Ars Technica]
