NEWSMAKERS

NEWSMAKERS

Authors of kids books seek repeal of NC law

CHARLOTTE, N.C.

Nearly 270 authors and illustrators of children’s books have signed a letter calling on North Carolina to repeal a new law preventing specific anti-discrimination rules for LGBT people for public accommodations and restroom use.

The letter, which was posted on the School Library Journal website, said the 269 signees are “disappointed and angered by the reprehensible legislation” signed into law by Gov. Pat McCrory. They called for repeal of what they called a “hateful piece of legislation.”

“As even the youngest among you recognize, a law that promotes, enables, or encourages discrimination of any kind is wrong,” the letter said.

Among the names on the list are authors Rick Riordan, author of “Percy Jackson;” Jeff Kinney, who wrote “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” and Veronica Roth, author of “Divergent.”

The group also said it would have to consider participation in conferences and festivals in North Carolina while the law is in effect.

Watchdog group demands overhaul of TV ratings system

LOS ANGELES

The TV-content ratings system consistently fails to protect children from adult fare and must be overhauled, a watchdog group said Monday.

A Parents Television Council study released Monday faulted the 20-year-old system over how shows are rated, who rates them and a purported lack of transparency.

Young viewers routinely are exposed to graphic violence, explicit sex, profanity and other adult content in shows that are labeled as suitable for children, said Tim Winter, the group’s president.

That’s because of inherent flaws in the ratings system, he said, including the oversight board’s structure and the fact that networks rate their own programs.

Associated Press