COVID-19 Livestreaming Raising Copyright Issues, CRS Says

Congress might want to consider making the Copyright Act's fair use provision easier to employ given the copyright issues that emerge with increased livestreaming of distance learning and remote worship services during the pandemic, the Congressional Research Service said Friday. Lawmakers could put the burden of proof on the copyright owner or add or amend the Section 110 exemption protections to include performances or displays over the internet, CRS said: Congress could maintain the legal status quo, with webcasters relying on the existing fair use defense and exemptions, because copyright holders might be reluctant to sue educational or religious institutions.