U.S. Senator Asks FTC To Investigate Loot Boxes
Loot boxes are finally drawing the attention of Congress here in the United States. Yesterday, Nov. 27, Senator Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) issued a request for an investigation into loot boxes during a hearing of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation subcommittee.
Hassan called loot boxes "an area that could use additional oversight by the FTC," especially as they pertain to the way children interact with them. She mentioned the regulations that exist in other countries, such as Belgium, The Netherlands, and Japan and implored the committee to investigate the issue, receiving a positive response.
Hassan claimed that loot boxes will represent $50 billion in income for game developers by the year 2022, "according to the latest research polls."
So here we have it: The highest levels of the United States government are finally discussing loot boxes. Other states, notably Hawaii, have addressed the issue, though such legislation has typically not gotten very far. With things progressing to this point, however, it's hard to think that something won't be implemented, at some point, on a nationwide basis. It might take several more months, or even years, but it's coming.
Related Articles
About the Author

Jason Winter is a veteran gaming journalist, he brings a wide range of experience to MMOBomb, including two years with Beckett Media where he served as the editor of the leading gaming magazine Massive Online Gamer. He has also written professionally for several gaming websites.
Read Next
Breach Early Access Coming In January, New Trailer Out Today
Breach is almost ready for the big time -- by which, of course, we mean Steam.
By Jason Winter - 4 years agoYou May Enjoy
Gameplay Of The Day Before Is Coming Sooner Than You Might Think, As In Tomorrow
We'll soon get to see if The Day Before lives up to the hype.
By Troy Blackburn - 3 days agoDestiny 2 Looks To Change The PvE Meta With Season 20 Weapons Update
Bungie unleashes the nerf bat on the current Destiny 2 meta.
By Troy Blackburn - 2 days agoGundam Evolution Season 3 Is Live Now, Welcome The New Hyperion Gundam
The third season will end on April 5.
By Aspen Pash - 1 day agoEvil Dead: The Game Lets You Slaughter Deadites In New 40 Player Battle Royale
A groovy new game mode and Lucy Lawless make their way to Evil Dead: The Game.
By Troy Blackburn - 2 days agoBlade And Soul Is Bringing Sweet Treats And Epic Parkour
It's time to get your parkour on in Blade and Soul!
By Troy Blackburn - 3 days agoRUMOR: Insider Believes Rumbleverse Will Reportedly Shut Down At The End Of February
Take a hefty grain of salt with this one.
By Anthony Jones - 5 days ago
And my main character Jean Grey? Screw you MMOBOMB Q_Q