Keeping our eyes and ears open is one of PPA’s most important tasks in Washington, D.C. It may not sound important, but changes in copyright legislation can have a huge impact on your welfare, rights, and livelihood. As Congress is currently in recess, it’s a good time to update you on issues we are watching carefully.
- PPA strongly opposes H.R. 1201 – “Freedom and Innovation Revitalizing U.S. Entrepreneurship Act of 2007” (sponsored by Congressman Boucher, D-9th VA). The title of this bill does not do justice to its contents. In fact, it’s a great example of how something that sounds good can turn sour. HR 1201 would expand the fair use of copyright-protected material and even make it possible to circumvent digital media’s encryption in certain instances. HR 1201 is currently in the hands of the Courts and the Internet and Intellectual Property Subcommittee of the House Judiciary Committee. PPA has expressed our deep concerns on this copyright threat, but no action has been taken.
- PPA strongly supports S. 522 – “Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement Act,” introduced by Senator Evan Bayh (D-IN) and Senator George Voinovich (R-OH). It would increase federal law enforcement agencies’ coordination and commitment to copyright protection.
- H.R. 3155 – “Intellectual Property Criminal Enforcement Act of 2007” (by Congressman Steve Chabot R-1st OH) was recently introduced in the House and is supported by PPA. This act would increase the penalties for committing acts of counterfeit and provides additional Department of Justice and FBI resources to prevent piracy.
- We also support S. 548 and H.R. 1524 – “Artist-Museum Partnership Act,” sponsored by Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and by Congressmen John Lewis (D-5th GA), Jim Ramstad (R-3rd MN) and Lloyd Doggett (R-25th TX). These bills would allow an artist to receive a tax deduction equal to the fair market value of a piece of art—like a photograph—donated to a charitable institution.
- Based on conversations with Senate and House Judiciary Committee staff, we anticipate an Orphan Works bill this fall. When this bill was originally introduced last Congress, PPA gained significant protection for our members through hearings and meetings. We will carefully monitor this bill whenever it appears.
- We are closely watching the Copyright Office’s email registration test and—with the help of PPA members in the test group—will ensure that you get a complete report of how it works and any changes in registration requirements.
Sometimes we speak out; sometimes we ask for you to speak out. But you can be assured that we are always watching out for your rights.
Sincerely,
Al Hopper
Director of Membership, Copyright & Government Affairs
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