Political Quotes

“there is wide agreement in this country that violent and sexually explicit programming desensitizes children and can influence their behavior and emotional development. But changes in society and technology have made it more difficult for parents to monitor their children's exposure to television programming. The challenge we have today is to provide parents with new and better tools without involving the Government in the determination and distribution of content. If we give the Federal Government the authority to establish a ratings committee, to determine its members, and to assess the adequacy of the ratings that are established, we will be in violation of the first amendment. Such a process will inevitably become politicized by Members of Congress dissatisfied with the ratings that are established and they will want to impose their own judgment on content regulation. This approach will result in years of litigation and ultimate rejection by the Federal courts. As much as the American people resent unwanted exposure to offensive programming, they have a strong belief in protection against Government censorship. I urge my colleagues to oppose a mandatory system that would undermine the first amendment and instead work to craft a policy that balances our desire to help parents protect their children with the fundamental right of free speech.”