PORTLAND The Oregon State Bar New Lawyers Division has released the topic and reference materials for its annual high school essay contest.

The competition carries a $500 cash scholarship prize for first place, $350 for second and $250 for third. It is open to all Oregon high school students. The deadline is May 11.

This years topic involves freedom of speech and a proposed law restricting the sale of certain video games to minors. Students are asked to write a persuasive essay arguing for or against the legislation, while using the legal reference materials provided. Materials include legal arguments by parties for and against the legislation and the text of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

The contest topic, reference materials and rules are available on the Oregon State Bars website, www.osbar.org.

Dean Brickey