Archived - Sonego, Sterling

Hello,

The first concern I would like to make reference to is that of preferential technology. Our copyright laws should allow for the use of whatever technology the individual finds appropriate; it is simply not fair to allow one device and not another, and may lead to a public perception of affinity between our government and particular companies.

I also think it is very important to support copy laws that allow for digital distribution. We cannot allow other countries and institutions to pass us by in terms of making knowledge available. MIT in the States is a fairly good example of how allowing intellectual content to be publicly accessible can be a huge benefit. Their lecture content is available online, and can be used by anyone who wishes to learn. We need to support this kind of distance education and institute laws that allow it to foster.

The statutory damages provision should be amended so that the prospect of millions in liability for cases of non-commercial infringement is eliminated. Moreover, the provision should not apply where the infringer had a good faith belief that the alleged infringement was covered by fair dealing.

Under no circumstances should we ever try to implement some sort of strike system like those proposed in New Zealand and France where potentially unfounded allegations about improper internet use can result in the loss of internet access. This is even more prevalent if we consider it being applied to people who have no intention of violating copyright for personal gain and have simply made a mistake or copied something for personal use which they already own.

Do not extend the copyright term at all.

Sterling Sonego