Industry Reacts To Music Licensing Hearing
The government's copyright czar, Marybeth Peters told a House Judiciary Committee panel on Thursday that a century-old music-licensing statute must be updated for the online age. Read about her testimony in Technology Daily's PM edition.
Section 115, the provision in question, was the focus of much debate in the 109th Congress as industry players attempted (unsuccessfully) to reach a consensus on how language should change. After her testimony, stakeholders applauded Peters' points and pledged to forge ahead.
Mitch Glazier, a lobbyist for the Recording Industry Association of America, said Peters has done a "good job of identifying a minimum number of key issues that need to be resolved." He said he was encouraged by her recommendations and looks forward to studying a proposal that incorporates her suggestions.
Digital Media Association Executive Director Jonathan Potter said Peters "hit the nail on the head" when she urged Congress to streamline Section 115. "The current licensing system fails the music industry not only because it is antiquated and ambiguous, but also because it gives an indirect advantage to illegal music sources," he said.
David Israelite, president of the National Music Publishers' Association, said some ideas discussed during the hearing would be harmful to songwriters and music publishers but "we remain committed to work with the Congress to reform Section 115 in a way that is respectful to our property rights."
Join the Discussion
The National Journal Group has the right (but not the obligation) to monitor the comments and to remove any materials it deems inappropriate.
Comments powered by Disqus