"Eldred Act" Introduced

The Washington Post: "Two members of Congress today introduced legislation (PDF) they said would ensure the American public's access to the nation's intellectual and artistic heritage."

Representatives Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose) and John Doolittle (R-Rocklin): 

"Our Founding Fathers recognized that society has an interest in the free flow of ideas, information and commerce," said Lofgren. "That is why copyright protection does not last forever. This bill will breathe life into older works whose long-forgotten stories, songs, pictures and movies are no longer published, read, heard or seen. It is time to give these treasures back to the public."

"Opening access to historical works for restoration and rehabilitation is essential toward ensuring that classics will be appreciated and cherished for future generations to come," said Doolittle. "I am proud to join my colleague Zoe Lofgren in sponsoring this common-sense legislation and greatly appreciate the broad base of support it has received."

The American Association of Law Libraries, which joined the  American Library Association and the Association of Research Libraries immediately in endorsing the bill: "Many more House cosponsors are urgently needed now so that we can build momentum for this important legislation. Please contact your representative as soon as possible, using the talking points in the letter below, to urge that he/she cosponsor the bill."

Lawrence Lessig: "It was a great day in DC. Public Knowledge had arranged the meetings, with members and their staff from both sides of Congress, and both sides of the isle. We met with the staffs of Senators Cantwell, McCain and Leahy, then met with Congressman Cannon and Boucher. And—at her request—we met with Congresswoman Bono."

Slashdotters discuss.