COPYCENSE

"The Senate heard strong opposition from the technology industry on Thursday about a bill (.pdf) that would hold tech companies responsible for creating devices that could be used to pirate digital content.

"In its current form, the bill proposes to slap technology companies for making any device that could ‘induce’ or encourage buyers to make illegal copies of songs, movies or computer programs.  But technology companies say it would kill innovation and potentially outlaw some of the most popular devices, including Apple’s iPod.

"The Business Software Alliance surprised some observers, as the group initially supported the bill but is now asking for clarifications to protect innovation. Representatives of IEEE and NetCoalition, which represents Internet companies and Internet service providers, also expressed opposition to the bill."

Katie Dean. Techies Blast Induce Act. Wired News. July 23, 2004.