A new report from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) endorses claims that TV violence can increase violent behavior in children, and that existing parental controls are ineffective at limiting child exposure to violent programming. As a consequence, the FCC is encouraging Congressional action to curb "excessively violent programming" on TV.

Among the measures the FCC suggests could be effective, and survive First Amendment scrutiny, are limits on violent programming during certain hours and a requirement that cable companies offer "a la carte" channel selection for consumers. FCC Chairman Kevin Martin commented that the prospect of a legal challenge to some restrcitions should not dissuade Congress from acting. The FCC report was adopted unanimously by the Commission, although two of the five commissioners expressed some concerns. Senatory Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) said he expects to file legislation based upon the FCC's recommendations.

Here is coverage on the report from the Washington Post, LA Times, and AP.