The Sonny Bono Internet Tax–on schools, libraries and consumers

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Come to think of it, we already have a nasty Internet tax or at least a quasi one. Can anyone spell S-o-n-n-y B-o-n-o?

The Sonny Bono Copyright Term Extension Act is a disguised tax on government and the public. Over the decades it will shift billions from schools, libraries and consumers in general to members of the copyright elite. Among the lucky beneficiaries will be none other than the descendants of the well-to-do lady to the left, Congress member Mary Bono. Well past the previous copyright terms, the family of Sonny’s widow will collect from the RIAA, Warner Music Group and the Bono Collection Trust.

One way or another–for example, through somewhat higher taxes–Americans will have to cough up for old content that should be free. Republicans, Dems, no matter what the party, it’ll be helpful for legislators to pass a ban on the Bono Internet Tax–or at least to consider the Lessig approach.

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