Strange Bedfellows

Joining groups like the Consumer Electronics Association, the American Library Association, Public Knowledge and DigitalConsumer.org, the Heritage Foundation, a conservative thinktank, is also troubled by the scope of the proposed IICA. Norbert J. Michel discusses Internet File Sharing: The Evidence So Far and What It Means for the Future:

One bill--S. 2560, introduced by Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT)--would make liable anyone who "intentionally aids, abets, or procures" a copyright violation. This language could cover a huge range of legitimate activities. Intel pioneer Les Vadasz argues that these prohibited "activities" could even cover the production of microprocessors used to power PCs.

Similarly, regulation of devices and software should also be rejected. While technology mandates could reduce unauthorized copying, such rules would also stifle innovation. Whatever happens in Washington, the ultimate solution may be a private one, with copyright owners using new technologies to make unauthorized copying of works more difficult.

(via Boing Boing)