Recent rulings from appeals courts have reaffirmed that copyright cannot be used to restrict access to laws affecting public safety and welfare. EFF's advocacy, through an amicus brief, argues against private ownership of laws, supporting a judicial consensus that recognizes public rights. The case centers on UpCodes, a database claiming copyright over building codes incorporated into law, a claim others have countered successfully. The courts' decisions favor fair use, emphasizing that once legal codes are enacted, they should remain freely accessible to the public for safety and transparency purposes.
The case brings to light the ongoing debate over whether private entities can claim copyright protection over laws essential for public safety and welfare.
EFF argues that the common legal consensus should prevail, ensuring that no one owns the law, thereby allowing unrestricted access and sharing.
The courts have historically sided with public interest, establishing that once laws are enacted, they are available for public use without copyright restrictions.
The ongoing legal battle highlights the need for clear legal frameworks that preserve public access to critical safety standards and laws.
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