Most people think that when they buy something, they own it and they can do with it as they please – whether that means resell it, loan it, or give it away. We refer to this concept as owners’ rights. However, Copyright Law is currently being used to limit these owners’ rights. Some courts have held that you need permission to resell authentic – not pirated, but legitimate –copyrighted goods that were made overseas.
Congress should step in to clarify that an good purchased, is a good owned. Congress should protect the right of all businesses (big and small) and all individuals to sell legitimate goods, which will benefit consumers, businesses, and the overall Internet-enabled economy.
eBay Inc. urges Congress to protect owners’ rights. eBay is passionate about using technology to open world markets and is concerned for entrepreneurs who create jobs and support themselves through an open and global marketplace. Limits on owners’ rights, stifles commerce. It limits the opportunity for entrepreneurs and consumers to access and sell goods at affordable prices from a variety of venues. eBay is committed to protecting owners’ rights.
eBay has joined the Owner's Rights Initiative, a coalition of businesses, associations and organizations dedicated to protecting owners' right sin the United States. A coalition of public interest organizations has also formed around the issue, the Citizens for Ownership Rights (CFOR). CFOR is currently collecting signatures to a petition requesting the President to support owners' rights.
