Fw: Internet Freedom in Severe Jeopardy - VOTE IS TONIGHT

Jon (jon@networkcommand.com)
Thu, 8 Oct 1998 13:10:39 -0700


-----Original Message-----
From: Twila Brase <twila@cchc-mn.org>
To: Multiple recipients of list MED-PRIVACY <med-privacy@essential.org>
Date: Thursday, October 08, 1998 12:54 PM
Subject: Internet Freedom in Severe Jeopardy - VOTE IS TONIGHT

:Apparently there is more to HR 2281 than meets the eye.
:
:Even though the "Database" section was removed, Washington sources suspect
:that restrictive Internet provisions, supported by large corporations,
:including Microsoft and Time Warner, are still in the yet to be revealed
:conference committee (Senate and House members confer and agree to a final
:version) bill. These provisions would
:
: * Make internet service providers (ISPs) gatekeepers to the Internet
: * Require that ISPs delete your website, file or link if a
:competitor, or other person says you have copyrighted material on the site,
:even if there is no proof.
: * threatens the ISP with penalties unless they respond
:"expeditiously to remove or disable the reference or link"
: * Allows competitor to demand removal of material without evidence
:or proof of registered copyright.
: * allow seizure of your computer or VCR without advance notice and
:without any finding of wrongdoing (by order of a federal judge)
: *Imposes prison sentences of up to five years if judge determines
:you used equipment in violation to the rights of a copyright owner.
: *NO DUE PROCESS IS REQUIRED BEFORE SEIZURE OF PROPERTY - THIS
:VIOLATES YOUR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS
:
:The House will vote on it tonight and requires a 2/3 vote to pass. The
:Senate may vote tonight and a simple voice vote is expected (allow Senators
:to avoid recording of their votes). Call now.
:
:==================================
:Citizens for Choice in Health Care
:1954 University Ave. W. Suite 8
:St. Paul, MN 55104
:651-646-8935 ph
:651-646-0100 fx
:http://www.cchc-mn.org
:==================================
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