DVD backup software maker 321 studios has promised up to 1 million dollars to the EFF in order to fight for fair use legislation. If you purchase a Lite-On drive bundled with DVD X Copy software from the 321 website, 25 dollars of the sale will go to the EFF to help fund consumer rights issues. The monies are earmarked for the education of consumers on digital copyright law and to fight for favorable legislation for the end user. Thanks go to GristyMcFisty who used our news submit to tell us about this important
effort.
"We are very pleased that 321 Studios has chosen to recognize the important work of the Electronic Frontier Foundation with a generous financial contribution over the next year," said EFF Executive Director Shari Steele. "321 Studios knows firsthand the importance of advocating for copyright law that preserves the balance among content-creators, innovators, and the public." "This is a natural partnership that allows our customers to join the fight for digital rights. The EFF is working to protect those rights including that of Americans to protect their home entertainment investment through DVD backup and repair," said Robert Moore, President and Founder of 321 Studios. "As the leader in the DVD backup, repair, and creation software industry, it makes sense for 321 and our customers to put some economic muscle behind that fight." |
321 Studios filed a declaratory relief action in federal court last year asking a judge to confirm that its software, which enables consumers to make backup copies of DVDs they own, does not violate the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). They were then counter-sued by the movie studios. The EFF stepped in and filed a friend-of-the-court brief arguing that the DMCA cannot constitutionally prohibit tools, like 321 Studios', that enable the public to make fair use of their media. The court has not yet ruled on the case.
Source: eff.org
