Washington - The state of California has reimbursed the video game industry $282,794 in attorney's fees, which the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) expended in challenging the state's law restricting the sale of video games to minors.

Last August, a federal court ruled the California video game law to be unconstitutional on First Amendment free speech grounds -- as courts have similarly ruled in several other states.

The state of California is currently appealing the decision.

"California deserves more from its legislators than pursuing flawed legislation," said Michael D. Gallagher, CEO of the ESA.

"Rather than tackling real problems affecting Californians, they chose to waste time, money and state resources... It is unfortunate that the state is stubbornly pursuing an appeal that is likely to lead to even more court-awarded fees."

Related Links:
http://www.theesa.com/newsroom/release_detail.asp?releaseID=28