I just got my own scanner, so this is very late. Wally responded to this Action Alert on June 30, 2004.
Dear Patrick:
Thank you for contacting me regarding your opposition to H.R. 4077, the "Piracy Deterrence and Education Act of 2004." I appreciate your thoughts on this matter.
As you may know, H.R. 4077 was introduced by Representative Lamar Smith (R- TX) on March 31,2004. Specifically, the bill seeks to enhance criminal enforcement of the copyright laws, to educate the public about the application of copyright law to the Internet. There is, as you are aware, fairly widespread opposition to this proposal across the recording industry, which is currently seeking better mechanisms to enforce its copyright privileges. Thi& legislation would undermine these efforts.
Following introduction, H.R. 4077 was referred to the House Judiciary Committee, and the Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet, and Intellectual Property for further consideration. On March 31, 2004, a mark up session was held, and the bill was amended by voice vote.
While I do not serve on the committee of jurisdiction over this measure, please be assured I will continue to monitor this issue. Should it come to a vote in the House of Representatives, I will keep your views uppermost in mind.
Again, thank you for contacting me on this important issue. Should you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me in the future.
