http://mag.awn.com/?ltype=pageone&article_no=3605There's a lot of information that I urge those of you who are artists or photographers, and even those of you who aren't, to read this article..
But the basics are, if this bill goes through:
- You will HAVE to register, and PAY, to own the copyright for your creation, if not it will be considered an orphaned work. Currently any work you create is yours, copyright and all, at creation, as YOU created it.
- An orphaned work is basically anything an artist creates that, through neglect or time, loses it's copyright and becomes Public Domain (I THINK).
- An Orphaned work can be used by ANYONE for profit, say a small fast food joint needs a mascot, a T-Shirt press needs a design, a large Art/Photo stock company wants to sell your image, etc. They can do that without paying you, the creator, if you do not pay to register for a copyright.
- This bill is backed by Corbis and Getty Images. They are large stock photo and stock art companies. They sell art and photos inexpensively.
- A similar bill is in the works in Europe.
If you disagree with this new law, write to your legislator.