Save the []

Welcome to SaveThe.org, a continuation of SavetheiPod.com... it's not just your iPod that is threatened by this innovation-killing legislation, everything from VCRs to tech journalists could conceivably come under fire if this overly broad bill is passed. Formerly known as the INDUCE Act (Inducement Devolves into Unlawful Child Exploitation Act), the bill is now called the Inducing Infringement of Copyrights Act of 2004 (IICA), but don't be fooled, it's still just as dangerous.

What is the Induce Act?

Senator Orrin Hatch is at the forefront of modern legal theory. His new bill before Congress — the "Inducing Infringement of Copyrights Act of 2004" (formerly the "Inducement Devolves into Unlawful Child Exploitation Act" or simply the "INDUCE Act") — makes illegal the "inducement" of copyright infringement. While ostensibly aimed at eradicating filesharing networks, this bill's impact is far greater, and far more insidious, than even its sponsors might intend.

The INDUCE Act could be used to penalize any person or company who provides a device or service that could do anything to bring added value to intellectual property. The photocopier could illegally "tempt" its users to duplicate copyrighted material. Broadband providers could be held liable for "tempting" users to download songs. While established corporations might be able to withstand such lawsuits, entrepreneurs with novel, perhaps revolutionary technology could falter under the legal threats and expenses. With the Induce Act, the iPod of the 22nd century might never be released.

Restrictive legislation such as the INDUCE Act will slow the progress of technological innovation; the threat of lawsuits and legal fees can be enough to stop a small developer from bringing his or her product to market. No one will benefit from suppressing research and creativity — except, that is, for those corporations lobbying Congress to pass this bill.

Big Media lost its lawsuits against the P2P networks, so it is now lobbying Congress for legislation to protect its existing revenue streams. For Hollywood and the music industry, persuading Congress to pass the Induce Act requires much less effort, creativity, and expense than creating innovative business models to capitalize upon new technology.

Mr. Hatch and his co-sponsors are recklessly trying to salvage an industry's broken business model, while simultaneously — and this is purely coincidence — keeping their biggest donors happy.

Help save tech innovation. Stop the Induce Act.