California lawmakers took a big step for video game players on May 14, 2026.
A group in the state Assembly voted to advance bill AB 1921, meaning the full Assembly will now vote on it soon.
The bill, named the Protect Our Games Act, was introduced by Assemblymember Chris Ward. It sets clear rules for video game companies that sell games connected to online servers.
If it becomes law, it would apply only to new games sold after January 1, 2027.
>Before shutting down servers, companies must notify players at least 60 days in advance.
>They must then provide one of three options:
-an offline version playable forever
-a free patch allowing play without the companyโs servers
-or a full refund.
Many companies currently shut down servers and make paid games unplayable. This bill aims to stop that.
The Stop Killing Games campaign supported the bill, while the Entertainment Software Association opposed it, arguing the rules would hurt new game development. The opposition failed in the committee vote.