The Hollings bill would require the commission to do the same thing for violent programming that "has been shown to be harmful to children."

The prospect for passage of new legislation on violent programming is unclear.

And the bill would require television manufacturers to install a new chip aimed at letting parents block out violent programming.

Though neither company's system currently includes a feature to block violent programming, including one would simply mean writing additional software.

Many media executives acknowledge the harmful effects of violent programming on children, but insist it isn't their responsibility.

Networks and cable channels would remain free to broadcast violent programming during hours when children are not a substantial part of the audience.

The research is also different in that it found a link between violence and viewing of any television programming, not just violent programming.

There is no specific reference, however, to address violent programming or hate propaganda.

Parents need more tools to protect children from excessively violent programming.

The report said that research on whether violent programming had caused children to act more aggressively was inconclusive.