Bill Analysis
This bill would modify the portion of the code related to the piracy of music. It would update the definition of “recording” to include memory cards, flash drives, hard drives, data storage device. This bill would also clarify some language in relation to the consequences of improper labeling.
HB 2483 would also authorize the court ordered restitution to an owner or lawful producer of a recording that has suffered financial loss as a result of the offense. The guidelines for how to calculate restitution is contained in this bill.
Finally, this bill clarifies that this section would not apply to a financial institution or an affiliate of a financial institution.
Vote Recommendation Notes
It is well within the proper role of government to make certain individuals pay restitution if their actions cause financial harm to others. However, it is not clear that the sale and manufacturing of unauthorized recordings results in significant financial loss to the party that will be compensated by the restitution. Due to the equal and opposite effect on our liberty principles, we will remain neutral.
