To: Senator Ken Salazar
From: (your name)
Re: (“Orphan works” ) Senate Bill S. 2913 4-26-08
Dear Senator,

I am writing to voice my opposition to Senate Bill S. 2913, the “Orphan Works” Bill. This bill makes it too easy for companies to use artwork without paying the artist who created it. If caught, they would only be obliged to pay a token fee, rather than damages. This law would encourage companies that use commercial artwork to copy graphic material at will, under the assumption they will not have to pay for it. This is similar to someone shoplifting from a store, but the only penalty if they got caught would be to pay the price of the item. As an artist who supports herself by selling her artwork, I feel this bill would endanger my ability to make a living.

In addition, many European companies are refusing to import China-made products if the copyright cannot be confirmed. This is because China has a reputation for ignoring copyright law. If the U.S. gets a similar reputation due to the passage of this bill, I fear that U.S. exports of illustrated products could be threatened.

Please vote “no” on this bill.

Sincerely,