Kate, I read this and speed read through the actual proposed rules at http://www.loc.gov/copyright/fedreg/2002/67fr5761.html I may be completely off, but my reading is that it appears that these rules have already been in effect since decisions in 1995 and 1997 to apply the copyright law to internet and satellite broadcasters. The prior rules were deemed "interim" to allow a period of time to fine tune them, as the new technology was still developing. This latest proposal is to essentially consolidate already existing rules. It seems that any type of broadcaster is subject to the same reporting rules as AM/FM radio stations. Those reporting regulations have always been to protect the copyright holder so that there is a record for copyright holder to know how many times one of their songs have been played, etc. to ensure they are being paid all royalties due. That said, it certainly does look like it will be a burden to internet broadcasters to adhere to the law, but it also looks like they should have been aware of the law for a few years now. The law is to protect all artists/copyright holders, including the alternative indie artists who may not be receiving all their proper royalties for broadcast of their original songs through the internet. Kakki
P.S. I think the regulation of keeping extensive records on every listener who logs on is way over the top and would think that could be successfully challenged in court. > i was just sent these links concerning a recent decision in the ongoing > attempt to squash the alternative indie competition...many are > outraged...here is the link if you are interested (you can read others > comments & comment yourself)... > > Broadcasters Outraged over Proposed Reporting Rules > Tuesday February 19, 2002 > http://www.radiohorizon.com/index.php3?fcn=displayarticle&id=2424
