Thank you for contacting me to share your opposition to S. 978, a bill to amend the criminal penalty provision for criminal infringement of a copyright. I share your concerns and appreciate hearing from you on this important issue.
I agree that protecting intellectual property rights is critical to preserving jobs and ensuring the continued success of the U.S. entertainment industry, but we should not enact policies that hinder personal freedoms in the process. We need to protect valuable copyright laws, but I am concerned that overly broad legislation like S. 978 could lead to overzealous enforcement of the law. As we move forward, our laws should protect innocent users of the Internet and provide artists, authors, and entertainers with protections for their hard work and ideas.
Copyrighted materials, including music, movies, television shows, software, books and more can be easily—and illegally—obtained through file sharing networks. The entertainment industry in particular is a major contributor to our economy, and all efforts should be made to maintain its strength and vitality. Fortunately, online intellectual property piracy has declined significantly in recent years, thanks to protections provided by the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (P.L. 105-304), the closure of major illegal file sharing networks and rogue sites, and the rise of legitimate online media services.
As you may know, S. 978 was introduced in the Senate on May 12, 2011 by Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), but has not yet been introduced in the House of Representatives. Please be assured that I will remember your opposition to this legislation should it be considered by the House of Representatives.
For additional information, please visit my website, http://www.heck.house.gov. From this site you can access statements about current events or pending legislation, and receive detailed information about the many services that I am privileged to provide for Nevadans.
Again, I appreciate your thoughts and it is an honor to serve you in Congress. Your suggestions are always welcome, and if ever I may be of assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
DR. JOE HECK
US Member of Congress
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