Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: MONDAY, May 15, 1995 TAG: 9505160008
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: RON HUTCHESON FORT WORTH STAR-TELEGRAM
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
The Texas Republican joined Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D., in proposing a violence report card for television programs. The government-funded assessment is intended to help parents determine which shows are suitable for children.
``We are not trying to do something that is censorship. It's a simple report card,'' Hutchison said at a Capitol news conference. ``From time to time I do see some of these shows, and I'm just amazed.''
The evaluation would be conducted by a nonprofit organization, presumably a university, with the help of a grant from the Commerce Department. The report card would include a description of the type of violence found on each program as well as a list of the show's sponsors.
The bill's sponsors expressed hope that the information would prompt parents to pressure sponsors and networks to cut back on shootings, assaults murders and other violent acts. They also questioned the airing of such movies as "Jurassic Park" and "Deadlocked: Escape From Zone 14" during times when they can be watched by children.
``That's not healthy,'' Hutchison said. ``I can handle whatever comes across television, but I think it is our children that are getting a false sense of what is normal behavior.''
The proposed report card drew a mixed reaction from the television industry. A spokeswoman for the National Cable Television Association, which represents cable companies, expressed support.
``I would say we're in favor of anything that gives viewers more information and helps them make better choices,'' said association spokeswoman Bridgit Blumberg.
But a spokeswoman for the National Association of Broadcasters said her organization would probably oppose the bill. Broadcasters and network executives contend that they can maintain acceptable programming standards without congressional intervention.
by CNB