Both Houses of the U.S. Congress have introduced new draft versions of the Orphan Works Act of 2008, a controversial bill about the use of copyrighted works whose owners may be impossible to identify and locate. The Stock Artists Alliance have defended the interests of professional photographers involved in stock image licensing by publishing their commentary and suggestions about Orphan Works. The SAA argues that the effects of the Orphan Works Act, if passed, would be felt worldwide, citing a similar UK study called the Gowers Review of Intellectual Property, which was published in 2006.

Stock Artists Alliance Press Release

The Stock Artists Alliance Speaks Up About Orphan Works

May 5, 2008.  Orphan Works is back. On April 24, new draft versions of the Orphan Works Act of 2008 were introduced by both Houses of the U.S. Congress.

The Stock Artists Alliance has just published extensive commentary about Orphan Works as a resource for artists and other members of the visual arts community who will be affected by this legislation. We offer our perspective as the only association dedicated to the interests of professional photographers involved in stock image licensing.

SAA also urges Congress to amend the bills and offers specific recommendations. Unless this legislation is put forth in a way that balances the needs of the users whom they are trying to serve with the interests of the copyright holders whom they must continue to protect, we again risk passage of legislation that will threaten copyright protections and the livelihoods of independent creators.

Visit SAA’s Orphan Works page at
http://www.stockartistsalliance.org/orphan-works

About SAA
The Stock Artists Alliance (SAA) is the only trade association dedicated to the business interests of professional stock photographers, supporting its members with information resources and ongoing advocacy initiatives. More information about SAA is available at www.stockartistsalliance.org

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