Top court to hear arguments on violent video games

WASHINGTON - Retailers who sell the latest "Halo" or "Call of Duty" video game to children would face substantial fines under a law being considered by the Supreme Court.

The justices will hear arguments Tuesday on whether to reinstate a California ban that would make it illegal for retailers to sell or rent violent video games to anyone under the age of 18. Parents could buy the games and give them to their children, but retailers who sold them to minors could face fines up to $1,000.

Supporters of the law say violent games are harmful to children.

But video-game companies say it's a First Amendment issue. And the lower courts have said California lacked enough evidence to prove violent games cause psychological harm to minors.