In the state of California, a bill incorporating the core framework of 'Stop Killing Games' has passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

The 'AB 1921' bill, which received approval from the Assembly Appropriations Committee, centers on requiring game companies to take specific measures when terminating server-based online games. It mandates that companies provide prior notice before service termination and offer alternatives, such as providing an offline-capable version, a patch to remove server dependency, or refunds.

The AB 1921 bill was recently amended to limit its scope, excluding retroactive application to existing live service games and focusing only on new games sold in the future. This adjustment aims to provide a minimum safety net to prevent purchased games from disappearing entirely while easing the operational burden on existing live service titles.

This legislative progress is closely linked to the 'Stop Killing Games' movement currently spreading across the global gaming community. The movement gained momentum after Ubisoft terminated the service for 'The Crew', effectively blocking user access. Players have raised concerns that it is unfair for digital games to become completely inaccessible upon service termination.

However, the bill has not yet been fully enacted. After passing the Assembly floor vote, it must undergo subcommittee review, hearings, and a vote in the State Senate, and finally receive the Governor's signature to officially become law.

In May, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) expressed formal opposition to the bill, citing excessive cost burdens, suggesting potential friction ahead. As such, there is a possibility of amendments or a veto in the Senate. Nevertheless, having passed the Appropriations Committee—often considered the most significant hurdle for pending legislation—the bill's full implementation remains a distinct possibility.