So where are we and where are they in terms of constructing a tv program ratings system?

In Canada, Shaw’s V-chip testing uses a classification system based on four categories: intended audience, violence, language and sexuality. Programs are rated from zero, indicating none of the offensive content, to five, designating the most explicit content. With a system in place, programs are computer encoded by broadcasters at the point of transmission on line 21 of the 525 lines that comprise a video picture.

Shaw is pledging to make the V-chip available to consumers within the year, contingent on a common classification system being established. The current trial will likely last about another six to eight weeks.

In the u.s., the V-chip is part of the recent telecommunications deregulation bill which gives the industry a one-year hiatus to come up with a ratings system before the fcc takes matters into its own hands.

In the meantime, broadcast industry execs are looking to come up with a united plan before Feb. 29 when President Clinton will take tea with execs from nbc, cbs, abc and fox and about a dozen cable networks, to discuss the violence issue.

Up for debate is a ratings system based on that used by the Motion Picture Association of America. The ratings system would use the same symbols that apply to feature films, tailored for tv to read gtv, pgtv, pg-13tv, rtv and nc-17tv with different standards applying for each rating.

Who would actually rate the programs is muddy with the same problems being discussed in Canada – timing, who does it and who are the watchdogs – perplexing the u.s. masses. Network execs were reportedly favoring an independent body handle the classification, but the sheer volume of programming produced has the majority rejecting the idea.

If the government and industry powers-that-be can’t come to a mutually satisfying agreement, Rupert Murdoch is out front of late, offering to implement his own ratings system.

Stay tuned, as we say.