By Steve Tepp

Today, the United States Copyright Office released its two-year strategic plan, which outlines 17 priorities and 10 special projects designed to address current and future challenges in copyright protection. The GIPC applauds the Copyright Office and Register of Copyrights, Maria Pallante, on this forward-thinking vision for the Copyright Office and the American copyright system.

Among the priorities are issues such as illegal streaming and the negotiation and implementation of copyright provisions in trade agreements. We are also extremely pleased to see combating rogue websites as the top legislative priority for the Copyright Office. Rogue sites, indeed, severely undermine the integrity of the copyright and e-commercial systems and necessitate the urgent attention of Congress to enact legislation that cuts off these online menaces from the U.S. marketplace. We are encouraged by the Administration’s and Congress’ renewed focus on equipping enforcement agencies with sufficient tools to implement existing intellectual property laws.

As the custodian of America’s copyright registration system, the Copyright Office’s new strategic plan offers a clear and transparent approach to 21st Century issues. Copyright protection and enforcement is good for business, good for consumers, and great for an innovative and prosperous America.