California Bill to Ensure Long-Term Access to Online Games Passes Key Committee
Bill to block publishers from killing online games advances in California
Ars Technica
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A California bill aimed at preserving access to online games has advanced from the Assembly's appropriations committee, paving the way for a floor vote. The Protect Our Games Act mandates that publishers must refund players or provide updated versions of games if support is discontinued, despite opposition from industry lobbyists.
- 01The Protect Our Games Act requires publishers to notify players 60 days before discontinuing necessary services for online games.
- 02The bill does not apply to completely free games or those offered solely during a subscription.
- 03The law would affect any game sold in California after January 1, 2027.
- 04The committee vote passed with an 11–2 majority, demonstrating strong legislative support.
- 05Stop Killing Games, a UK-based advocacy group, played a significant role in drafting the bill.
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The California Assembly’s appropriations committee has advanced the Protect Our Games Act, a significant step for the grassroots movement led by Stop Killing Games (SKG) aimed at preserving online gaming. The bill mandates that digital game publishers who cease support for an online game must either provide a full refund to players or offer an updated version that allows continued gameplay independently of the publisher's services. Additionally, publishers are required to notify players at least 60 days in advance of any service discontinuation that affects normal game use. Notably, the act will not apply to completely free games or those available solely through subscriptions. If passed, the law will impact all games sold in California starting from January 1, 2027. The bill's advancement, marked by an 11–2 committee vote, reflects a growing legislative commitment to game preservation, despite pushback from industry lobbyists like the Entertainment Software Association. Monitz Katzner from SKG expressed optimism about the bill's progress, highlighting the collaborative effort in its drafting.
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This legislation could significantly enhance consumer rights for gamers in California, ensuring they retain access to purchased games.
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