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New version of the Broadcast Flag threatens free software

by Matt Lee Contributions — Published on Jan 27, 2006 05:39 PM
A new version of the Broadcast Flag bill seems to give the FCC and broadcasters the authority to regulate the transfer of legally obtained digital audio from the receiving device to any other device, including your computer.

Public Knowledge has an alarming report about attempts to expand the control of broadcasters and the FCC over your consumer electronics and PCs, potentially empowering the FCC to regulate every piece of equipment that touches a digital radio receiving device.

Language providing for this is found in the US Senate Draft of the "Digital Content Protection Act of 2006". It's a new version of the Broadcast Flag bill.

This would have wide-reaching ramifications. The FSF is very concerned that the regulations will be used to prohibit development and use of free software that interacts with digital audio (note PK's discussion of the "Secure Moving Technology" language in the draft).

If you are in the US, please contact your senator and let them know that you oppose the proposed rules. CC us at <campaigns@fsf.org> if you would like a copy of your comment posted on our site.

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