{November 20, 2008} - VICTORIA, BC – The Business Practices and Consumer Protection Authority (BPCPA) will be implementing changes to the Restricted (“R”) decal from its current octagonal format to a two part circular “hub decal” format on December 1, 2008.  This move is in response to industry concerns that the current decal is ineffective.  It is anticipated that the new decal will improve compliance.

This new format harmonizes BC with other jurisdictions that require decals be adhered directly to the hub of rental DVDs.  Those DVDs for sale must have the decal attached to the outer package.

Adult Video distributors will be required to attach the new decal to the outside of the DVD package prior to distributing the product into BC or Saskatchewan.  If the retailer sells the DVD, the decal remains in place.  However, if the retailer rents the DVD, they must remove the circular portion of the decal from the package and adhere it directly to the center or hub of the disk.

This program provides the industry and consumers with the assurance that the BPCPA is tracking and monitoring businesses engaged in the distribution, sale and rental of Restricted product.

This initiative involves DVDs classified as Restricted by BPCPA only.  Canadian Motion Picture Distributors Association, Motion Picture Association of America or other jurisdictions’ “Restricted” ratings do not apply.

The BPCPA supports a fair marketplace for BC consumers and businesses.  Where a business fails to meet its obligations under the Motion Picture Act and Regulations, the BPCPA takes progressive enforcement action including orders, penalties, and in more serious cases, license suspension or cancellation.

For information, forms and other questions, please contact the BPCPA classification team.

Click here for additional information;

• New Restricted Decals Questions and Answers
• Restricted Decal Policy and Procedures