| I found this on the ESRB website:
Retailer Support
Although it does not have the legal authority to implement or enforce retailer sales policies with respect to computer and video games, the ESRB works closely with retailers and game centers to: a) provide in-store signage which explains the rating system; b) support their store policies pertaining to the sale or rental of Mature-rated games to minors; and c) help educate and train store associates and employees with regard to the rating system. For more information on the ESRB retail partnership program and the ESRB Retail Council (ERC),
I'm more liberal than most when it comes decisions being made for us by our government, but I think retailers should be required to only sell M/AO games to adults.
Although they don't have legal authority to enforce the ratings, game developers and publishers could make it difficult for retailers who fail to enforce the ratings. At least make it mandatory for the retailers to explain the ratings and inform parents or guardians about the products they are buying for their children.
Games are totally different than movies. Parents understand what movie ratings are and what is depicted in the movies, but unless they are gamers themselves, they have no real idea what the ratings are for.
IMO, Peench is on the right track, education is the way to go; but unless there are consequences for the retailers "non-action", the gaming industry will continue to get a bad rap from parents and politicians who don't understand games or the way they are rated.
The penalties should be from the gaming industry or the ERSB, not the government. Make a long story even longer, not illegal, but something should be done.
I voted yes, but after thinking it through and reading what I wrote, I guess I should have voted no. Can we change our vote? | 
