On paper, a California city bans the sale of comic books to kids. Officials want to change that | Hindustan Times

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**Revised Title:** "California City to Repeal 74-Year-Old Ban on Comic Books for Minors | A Step Towards Embracing Comic Culture" **Revised Article:** SACRAMENTO, Calif. - In a historic move, a city council committee has voted unanimously to repeal a 74-year-old ordinance that banned the sale of comic books to minors in Sacramento. The ban, which dates back to 1949, prohibited the distribution of comics that prominently featured crime stories, including images of arson, murder, and rape, to anyone under 18. Although the law is no longer enforced, its repeal marks a significant step towards embracing comic culture and recognizing its value in promoting literacy, creativity, and social responsibility. Lecho Lopez, a local comic book store owner, credits comic books with helping him overcome dyslexia and avoiding gang involvement in his youth. "Comic books have a unique ability to speak truth to power and inspire positive change," he said. Lopez is part of a growing movement to repeal similar bans across the country, which he believes are outdated and infringe on free speech. The California Supreme Court ruled in 1959 that a Los Angeles County policy banning crime comic books to minors was unconstitutional due to its broad scope. It's likely that Sacramento's ban would face similar scrutiny if challenged. Research on the link between comic books and violent behavior is limited, but studies on television and video games have shown no significant correlation with aggression or violent behavior in youth. Comic book authors, educators, and advocates argue that comics can have a positive impact on children, promoting literacy, critical thinking, and social responsibility. Eben Burgoon, a comic book author and advocate, said, "Comic books can make imaginative thinkers, not delinquents. They offer a unique way to engage with complex issues and promote empathy and understanding." The city's comic book community is thriving, with events like CrockerCon, a comics showcase at a local art museum, attracting visitors from across the country. The repeal of the ban is seen as a victory for comic book enthusiasts and a recognition of the medium's value in promoting literacy, creativity, and social responsibility. The proposal now heads to the full city council for a vote, with proponents hopeful that it will pass and mark a new chapter in Sacramento's comic book history.