from Representative John Olver (D-Mass)
Dear Jeremy: (name changed to protect me)
Thank you for contacting me regarding S. 2048, the Security Systems Standards and Certification Act (SSSCA).
As you know, S. 2048 would require manufacturers of computers and consumer electronics devices to work with content providers and consumer groups to develop copy protection technology within one year. If these groups fail, the Federal Communications Commission would intervene with its own solution to prevent copyright piracy. Currently, S. 2048 is before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Legislation like S. 2048 has many implications for the technology industry and consumers. Some technology companies believe government mandated copyright piracy solutions would threaten their business, while others complain that the illegal copying of content costs industries billions of dollars every year, and it discourages future production. Clearly, we need to develop a solution that gives consumers access to more goods and services without penalizing those provide these goods and services. (this sentence was typed exactly as it was with errors)
Please be assured I will keep your thoughts in mind if S. 2048 comes to the House of Representatives for a vote.
Thanks you again for contacting me. Please let me know if you have any more questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
(signature)
John W. Olver
Member of Congress