A California bill that would have mandated game publishers offer independent playability or refunds for shut-down online games has failed to pass a key senate committee. The proposed legislation, known as AB 1921 or the Protect Our Games Act, was supported by the Stop Killing Games campaign.
On June 29th, the bill was put to a vote in the California senate's Business, Professions and Economic Development committee. Out of 11 committee members, four voted in favor of the bill advancing, three voted against, and four abstained. This outcome meant the bill did not achieve the necessary majority to progress.
Despite this setback, the committee granted a motion for reconsideration, suggesting the bill may have a future opportunity to pass the vote. The Stop Killing Games campaigners noted that reaching this stage represented a significant achievement, particularly given their limited resources. They highlighted that their campaign operated with no budget, no paid staff in California, and relied on volunteers, emails, and phone calls.
The campaign stated that the bill successfully passed through the entire state assembly with a vote of 43 to 16 before reaching the senate committee. "We were only three votes away from this becoming law," the group commented, acknowledging the efforts of the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) in opposing the bill.
Moving forward, Stop Killing Games plans to return for the next legislative session with an increased lobbying presence, dedicated funding, and broader support from organizations and developers. The campaign also intends to introduce similar legislation in other states and is considering a federal approach. Beyond gaming, Stop Killing Games has launched a parallel initiative, "Stop Killing the Internet," to counter proposals like the UK's planned social media ban for individuals under 16, collaborating with groups such as Big Brother Watch and Index on Censorship.