This fall for the first time, Hollywood made an official attack on Internet companies that host or support piracy. The initial attack was to create a bill, SOPA, that would give the government power to shut down sites that violated certain rules. Now, as the issue has developed, it does not seem as likely that the SOPA bill will be passed.
Companies like Google and Yahoo that have stood behind Internet companies, have fought hard to keep their businesses alive, spending $91.5 million in legal fees, against Hollywood's $91.8 million. Politically, both Democrats and Republicans represent both sides of the battle, as there are clearly interests in both parties. The debate is rough, as both the freedom of the web and the rights of media companies are equally important, and have a huge place in our economy. -tt 12/05/11
Other sites with this story:
Mercury News
The Australian
Hollywood Reporter
