IN THE NEWS

WHIP HOYER LAUDS PASSAGE OF COPYRIGHT REFORM ACT

WASHINGTON – House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today in support of the passage of H.R. 1417, the Copyright Royalty and Distribution Reform Act of 2003:

“I am pleased that the House has passed H.R. 1417, and commend Chairman Smith, Ranking Member Conyers, and Rep. Howard Berman for their leadership on an issue of critical importance to the creators and copyright owners of musical compositions and sound recordings.

“This legislation, the Copyright Royalty and Distribution Reform Act, addresses the need to simplify our copyright laws, provide procedural certainty for both copyright owners and users, and ensure a more efficient – and less expensive – process.

“I am hopeful that the Senate will expeditiously consider this legislation, so that it can be signed into law before the end of this year.”

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