Congressional Memo Calling for Drastic Copyright Reform Quickly Recalled

Ars Technica reports that a “shockingly sensible memo” calling for reform of U.S. copyright law that has been recalled by the Congressional group that issued it. The group claimed the memo, entitled “Three Myths about Copyright Law and Where to Start to Fix it,” had not undergone adequate review before being released. The memo, using stark language, asserted that Congressional discussions of copyright were “not premised upon what is in the public good” and called for a reduction of statutory damages as well as an expansion of fair use. Ars Technica suggests the real reason for the change of heart was conflict between younger Republicans in the House of Representatives and the old guard.