Canadian Liberals introduce new copyright legislation

[miss_silver]

Just heard it on the news

Last Updated Mon, 20 Jun 2005 18:47:29 EDT

The federal Liberals introduced new legislation on Monday aimed at cracking down on file-sharing over the internet.

Dubbed Bill C-60, the proposed legislation is a package of amendments to the Copyright Act. It covers file-sharing, downloading and burning copies of CDs and movies.

Under the changes, making a CD for personal use would remain legal.

However, a so-called "make available" clause would criminalize putting songs into shared online directories such as Kazaa or BitTorrent.

The amended law would also exempt Internet Service Providers such as Rogers and Telus from copyright liability. They will, however, be required to establish a new warming system, called "notice and notice," a service they currently provide informally.

It would allow rights holders to issue warnings through the ISP to users about alleged sharing of copyrighted material.

The proposed legislation was introduced after intense lobbying by the music industry, which argues that file-sharing has been responsible for a downturn in sales.

Last year, a group of musicians appeared on Parliament Hill to ask the government to update the 1908 Copyright Act.

The new changes are not expected to be passed for some time. It will likely be later in the year or next spring before they become law.

Prime Minister Paul Martin has said he will call an election after the final report of the Gomery commission is published, which is expected in December.

From

All good things must end eventually but this I find strange --->"The amended law would also exempt Internet Service Providers such as Rogers and Telus from copyright liability"<--- Downloading mp3's and movie will soon become illegal but yet, the 2 biggest company that offer high speed almost nation wide are already immune to prosecution leaving smaller local isp vulnerable to this phenomenon

[JackSpratts]

it's always harder to change a law than to modify one, and this is a big change. it's something canadians could resonably expect to prevent, with some effort. if it's true you have a year, make use of it. get in touch with everyone in parliament but pay special attention to the suporters of this bill - and pressure them relentlessly. you'll get results.

- js.