Monday, September 20, 2010

U.S. Senators Propose Bill to Turn Justice Department Into Piracy Police

A group of Senators, led by Sens. Patrick Leahy and Orrin Hatch, have proposed a bill that would turn the Justice Department into piracy police.  The so-called "Combating Online Infringement and Counterfeits Act" would give the Justice Department the power to shut down websites that are "dedicated to infringing activities."  This latter phrase is broadly defined as a website that is "primarily designed, has no demonstrable, commercially significant purpose or use other than, or is marketed by its operator, or by a person acting in concert with the operator" to offer goods or services that infringe a copyright or trademark.  The entertainment industry doubtless loves this one.

Techdirt's commentary is here.

UPDATE:  The EFF's analysis is here.

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