Dems Talk Net Politics in 2009
PrintPut down the political pitchforks, because whether or not you're into politics, you might want to start paying attention in the coming months. Among the topics a Democratic aide said is likely to make a comeback this year is Net neutrality, along with possible changes to digital copyright and patent law.
Net neutrality, who Aaron Cooper, counsel to Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) in the Senate Judiciary Committee, says is a "completely judiciary issue" might soon take center stage. And if you're not keeping a close eye on where things are going, you can bet that copyright holders are. Case in point - Cablevision has proposed a service that would allow subscribers to record broadcast TV shows and movies on a DVR hosted by Cablevision, but not everyone likes the idea. Alec French, VP for government relations for NBC Universal, warns that Cablevision's plan would be "setting a roadmap out for anyone who wants to create a copyright infringing service."
Issues like this and statutory licensing reform (of high interest to Webcasters) are just some of the topics that could step into the limelight in 2009 and affect how you use your PC.
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Phloyd04
January 18, 2009 at 12:34pm
Just what we need, another instance of our Government limiting our freedoms because they and their cronies want to exploit every friggin aspect of life for money. When are we going to wake up and say enough is enough? I can see them telling the everyday, brain dead american that this will be a good thing. and they will agree because it would be to much like work to actually research the subject. By the time they realize that the Net is no longer free and open, it will be too late.
festiva_man
January 16, 2009 at 1:29pm
I haven't started paying taxes on alot of my internet purchases yet. I can't wait until the incoming administration starts taxing me for everything on the internet as well. Hell I can't wait until they pass another wonderful stimulous package and start realising that i need to pay for it. Spread the wealth. Bush was the most socialist president we have ever had I can't wait to see how real socialists act. Oh wait i won't be able to see that.....the media will censor it. :(
hg2WJW
January 16, 2009 at 11:58am
I like hearing that Net Politics will be of interest to the incoming administration. I think the law surrounding net neutrality and patent law need to be overhauled. And I am sure the USPO could use some help from the legislature as well. However, what I really wish is that major companies would support Free formats.
Michael Mientus
habuza
January 16, 2009 at 9:22am
Screw your pitchfork, bullshit like this is why I'm heavily armed. I'll just draw down on them if they try to control how I use MY computer that I paid for with MY money. Bang bang. So to speak.
gatorXXX
January 16, 2009 at 8:50am
Leave it to the dumbacrats to make our country more and more socialistic. They believe they should have control in everything you say or do. This is just another way for them to control how we use the internet and/or cable tv. So i will RAISE my pitch fork and say FU to Barney Frank, Nancy Pilosi, Harry Reed and many others as they are modern day posers wanting to give all the morons out there free everything at the tax payers expense. Next up will be free internet use for welfare recipients. But....that said internet use will be limited and over time, they will say....this ain't fair....so we will limit ALL internet usage so that everyone has the same thing whether you pay for it out of pocket or you get it free from the good ole welfare dept.
Muerte
January 16, 2009 at 1:44pm
Wow I could have sworn you r were describing Republicans. I'm pretty sure it was under Bush and the religious right that the FCC started curtailing our rights to listen to whatever the hell I wanted. I'm pretty sure radios and TV's all still come with different channels and on/off switches so I can censor for myself what's good or not good for me.
I'm pretty sure it was the Bush administration who gave us the patriot act that says the government can monitor everything that goes on overthe airwaves.
I'll take Socialism over Totalitarianism any day of the week. Socialism seems towork pretty good for our neighbors up nort.
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