Last week, Congressman Joe Baca of California introduced the Video Games Health Labeling Act of 2009, a bill that seeks to affix a descriptive warning label to all games with a rating of T for Teen or higher. He said that the move was necessary, given the gaming industry's failure to properly inform parents, families, and consumers of the "potentially damaging content that is often found in their products."

　　Every initiative needs a logo... Microsoft, for one, undoubtedly takes exception to Congressman Baca's stance on the issue. The Xbox 360 maker announced today that, in collaboration with electronics retailer Best Buy and a variety of children's activist groups, it has launched the Get Game Smart Web site. The site is designed to "help parents and kids maintain a dialogue about balanced and age-appropriate media use," specifically as it relates to games for the Xbox 360 and PC.

　　The newly launched Web site is geared toward informing parents about current issues surrounding the gaming industry, as well as child-safety trends that may impact their future purchasing decisions. The Get Game Smart site will also play host to a number of tips that parents can implement on their kids' consoles for responsible game-playing habits, such as parental controls.

　　To drum up support for Get Game Smart, Microsoft also announced a contest and sweepstakes opportunity. Microsoft is currently searching for Get Game Smart Ambassadors, whose job it will be to engage other parents and share their experiences concerning healthy game-playing habits. In exchange for their services, Microsoft is offering a number of giveaways to elected ambassadors, including an Xbox 360, a Zune, an Insignia 7 camera, and cash.

　　Microsoft also announced the Get Game Smart Family Challenge Sweepstakes. To enter, families must complete a number of activities that promote proper digital media and game-playing usage. The grand-prize winner will receive a $5,000 Best Buy gift card, while 100 others will take home gift cards in denominations of up to $250. More information concerning both initiatives is available on the Get Game Smart Web site.