Another Senate, Another Attempt to Restrict Fair Use

Ars Technica reports that four Senators (Alexander (R-TN), Biden (D-DE), Feinstein (D-CA), Graham (R-SC) have re-introduced a bill that imposes an obligation to restrict copying on providers of digital radio--whether over-the-air, by satellite, or Internet. The Bill, known as PERFORM (Platform Equality and Remedies for Rights Holders in Music Act,), also requires digital services to pay royalty rates at the "fair market value."

According to Feinstein, the bill doesn't restrict traditional Fair Use rights, because it would still allow users to record from digital sources by timers. What it would prevent is the ability to automatically seek out works by particular artists, or to resort them into playlists.

Needless to say, the RIAA rejoices.

Other coverage: Hollywood Reporter, Public Knowledge, Techmeme, Digg

Mickeleh's Take: I'm all for paying for music. I'm especially for getting the royalties to the musicians. I'm all for compensating the inventors who create new methods and opportunities to discover, acquire, and enjoy music. But here's my question: Where is the evidence that continually thwarting the customer and neutering innovation will actually bring more revenue into the ailing music business? PERFORM died in committee last session. I say, that death deserves an encore.

Please inform yourselves on this issue and let your Senators hear from you.

(Tags: PERFORM, Music Business, DRM, Digital Radio, Satellite Radio, RIAA)