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RSS feedsThe Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has welcomed the tabling of legislation that would allow the US Department of Justice to bring civil copyright infringement cases rather than criminal ones.
The proposed law follows the recent announcement by the FBI and the RIAA of a new voluntary, government-sanctioned anti-piracy seal for copyrighted music to warn users on illegal file sharing.
Introduced by US senators Patrick Leahy and Orrin Hatch, the latest proposal would allow for federal civil claims with damages without resulting in a criminal record for the defendant.
RIAA chairman and chief executive Mitch Bainwol said in a statement: "This legislation provides federal prosecutors with the flexibility and discretion to bring copyright infringement cases that best correspond to the nature of the crime.
"Copyright infringement is a serious crime damaging the thousands of hardworking artists, songwriters and everyone else who helps bring music to the public.
"Despite some encouraging signs, piracy continues to plague the music community. There's an essential role for education, enforcement by copyright owners, and federal prosecutions of the worst offenders."
See also:
Trade body welcomes new copyright infringement legislation as it issues more subpoenas 23 Jun 2004
Academic research disputes claim that file sharing is hitting CD shipments 30 Mar 2004
UK file sharers to be put 'on notice' for offering music on illegal download sites 25 Mar 2004
UK recording industry considers legal action against P2P 'serious offenders' 14 Jan 2004The US trade body is now bringing the full weight of the law to bear on individuals who dare to download a track or two from the web. But the users are fighting back ... 01 Aug 2003All Ecommerce
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