Overview

This bill extends the copyright term for sound recordings and performers' rights. Currently, these rights expire after a set number of years. This bill increases that duration significantly, impacting who owns and controls these rights in the future.

Description

Copyright in Sound Recordings

The bill extends copyright in sound recordings from 50 years to 95 years after the end of the calendar year in which the recording was made. Existing copyrights will continue to the original expiry date, or the new 95-year limit, whichever is longer. The bill addresses ownership of the extended copyright and outlines how existing licenses and agreements will be affected. It ensures that any existing copyright licenses or agreements that are in effect at the time the law is enacted will continue to be valid, subject to any changes the parties agree on.

Performers’ Rights

Similarly, the bill extends performers’ rights from their current duration to 95 years after the performance occurs or, if a recording is released, 95 years from the end of the year of release. Existing performers’ rights will continue to their original expiry date or the new 95-year limit, whichever is later. The bill specifies who will hold the extended performers’ rights and what happens to existing consents, agreements, and licences.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify an impact on government spending. However, increased copyright protection could indirectly affect government revenue through increased royalty collections (potentially increasing revenue) and costs of managing the extended copyright regime (potentially decreasing revenue). No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

Groups affected include:

• Record labels: Extended copyright protection could benefit record companies by extending their revenue streams.
• Performers (musicians, actors, etc.): Extended rights could increase their potential earnings, but also could potentially restrict the ability of future artists and audiences to access and use certain works.
• Artists' estates: This extension benefits the heirs and assigns of artists whose works are still under copyright.
• Architects and designers: This impacts their works if they are recorded and/or performed.
• Users of sound recordings and performances: Increased copyright protection could restrict access to and use of older works, potentially impacting the education and cultural sectors.

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