“The enactment of a bill that would make it easier for educational institutions to use films and songs in online instruction was all but assured Wednesday after a key House of Representatives committee approved the legislation. The House Judiciary Committee unanimously approved the bill, the Technology Harmonization and Education Act (S 487), on a voice vote without debate. It is identical to a bill the Senate approved in June 2001.
“The legislation would expand the exceptions under the Copyright Act of 1976 that allow colleges and schools to use copyrighted material for instruction without securing copyright holders’ permission. The act allows distance-education providers to digitally transmit nondramatic literary and musical works. Under the bill, they would also be able to show students selected portions of movies, plays and other dramatic works.
“The legislation applies only to accredited, nonprofit educational institutions…”
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