1.1: Digital Technology and Other Issues

Provide expert assistance to Congress, government agencies, and the courts on digital technology and other issues in light of fundamental copyright principles and the requirements of the law.

Other Information:

Digital and communication technologies have allowed more people access to America’s creative output. They have also challenged the nation’s copyright framework. Works in digital format are relatively easy to copy. Extensive and growing use of computer networks makes very broad distribution simple, especially across borders. The Digital Millennium Copyright Act, enacted in 1998, addresses some of these challenges. Even as we gauge the effectiveness of these provisions, new challenges continue to arise. They will be met through new business models, new methods of enforcement, new legal challenges, and new legislation. The Copyright Office must provide advice on how to deal with other problems that impede use or inhibit protection. These include such issues as the problem of “orphan works”—works whose owners simply cannot be located, thus making any negotiation of use and compensation impossible. Means: The means to accomplish this objective include • identifying and proposing ways to address copyright issues regarding online digital technology and other emerging issues • evaluating legislative proposals • testifying at congressional hearings • drafting legislative language • assisting the Department of Justice in litigation involving important issues of copyright law and policy • issuing necessary regulations

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