Over the past year, Activision Blizzard has had perhaps the most attention paid to them, moreso than any other gaming company, but not for virtuous reasons. The company faces numerous allegations of fostering a toxic workplace environment rampant with sexual harassment and various forms of discrimination. This has led to the departure of several key leaders at the company, as well as a lawsuit from the state of California and an investigation by the SEC. However, recent reports have indicated that the company has been hesitant to truly correct these issues. and now, several state treasurers are pressuring Activision Blizzard leaders to make “sweeping changes.”

Axios has shared new reports and comments reporting that as many as six state treasurers have asked Activision Blizzard to make significant changes to their company in light of its many allegations. Treasurers from Massachusetts, California, Delaware, Illinois, Nevada, and Oregon have formed a joint letter to Activision’s board of directors regarding their response, or inadequate lack thereof, to the allegations of harassment and abuse. The treasurers call to weigh a “call to vote against the re-election of incumbent directors.” As Illinois state treasurer Michael Frerichs stated:

“We’re concerned that the current CEO and board directors don’t have the skillset, nor the conviction to institute these sweeping changes needed to transform their culture, to restore trust with employees and shareholders and their partners.”

Massachusetts Treasurer Deborah Goldberg also expressed frustration with Activision Blizzard leaders, suggesting the company should conduct a third-party investigation, not just an internal one started by the board. It has become more common in recent years for state governments to invest in big software companies like Activision Blizzard, usually being a safe bet for state pension funds and the like. However, with so many issues at the company not being properly addressed, it makes sense for them to intervene.

As for the future, each of the treasurers currently want to hold a meeting with Activision Blizzard leaders by December 20th to discuss potential long-term changes. Hopefully, something fruitful comes out of this potential meeting so that real change at Activision Blizzard can happen and that no employees have to suffer in the future.

What do you guys think about the state treasurers asking Activision Blizzard leaders to make “sweeping changes”? Let us know in the comments below! Be sure to stay tuned for the latest Activision Blizzard news, such as Activision employees urging CEO Bobby Kotick to resign, here on Don’t Feed the Gamers! Follow us on Twitter to see our updates the minute they go live!