We wanted to update you on activity around the Marrakesh Treaty, which was ratified by the U.S. Senate late last month. The next step is in the House of Representatives, and ACB urges members to call Congress over the coming week in order to help finalize the Treaty.
The treaty, which will help gain access to published international works in accessible formats for people who are blind and have print reading disabilities, has a few more technical hurdles before being fully implemented in the United States. In order for the treaty to be fully enacted, the House of Representatives must pass S. 2559, the Marrakesh Treaty Implementation Act. This bill will make the necessary changes to U.S. copyright law so that the U.S. can begin to participate alongside the other 39 countries who have ratified the treaty.
ACB urges its members to call their congressional representative, and encourage their Member of Congress to support the Marrakesh Treaty. Let them know the treaty passed with unanimous consent in the senate and has the support of publishers, libraries, and advocates like yourself.
You can reach the congressional switchboard at: 202-224-3121. Ask to be connected with your Member of Congress in the House of Representatives, and they will connect you with the Member’s office. Forward along any concerns or questions to advocacy@acb.org.
To learn more, visit: http://www.acb.org/senate-advances-marrakesh. We thank you for your continued advocacy on this issue.