Tips for Recess Meetings with Representatives on Copyright Legislation

Here are some basic tips regarding “home district” meetings with members of the House Judiciary Committee. Prior to these meetings starting, we will hold a webinar on how to set up and participate in such meetings.

1. Who should we see: Focus on Key Members. Please find list below of top priorities. What ASMP members live or work in or near these districts? We are especially interested in learning whether there are ASMP members with pre-existing relationships with the following or other Committee members.

a. Chairman (R-VA) b. (D-MI) c. Lamar Smith (R-TX) d. Judy Chu (D-CA) e. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) f. Tom Marino (R-PA) g. (D-NY) h. Ted Deutch (D-FL) i. Doug Collins (R-GA) j. (R-WI)

2. Ask: Want to meet with Representative in home office to discuss small claims copyright legislation.

3. Length of Meeting Requested: Approximately ½ hour.

4. Number of ASMP attendees: 3-5 members per meeting.

5. Dress: Business casual should be fine. It is August and it is Recess.

6. Message: [see attached proposed script]

(1) why we need legislation—hit this hard with personal examples if possible; (2) appreciate introduction of Jeffries bill and fact that key issue is formally before Congress; (3) mention key provisions in Jeffries draft—e.g., new tribunal to hear copyright claim that presents clear alternative to federal court and streamlined process with proceedings that do not require in- person appearances by parties) and (4) emphasize need for legislation to also include other critical issues—mentioning one or two specifically, such as, need for enforcement actions to be in locations convenient to the parties, and stronger incentives to ensure that defendants will not routinely opt out of small claims process.

7. What Not to Say: Message should be positive and hopeful. Copyright issues are traditionally handled on a non-partisan basis, so please do not inject politics into the discussion, especially in this volatile political year.

8. Post- Meeting. Telephone de-briefing with Tom Kennedy. Promptly send thank you note to the Representative and tell him or her that ASMP’s DC-based Executive Director will be in touch with their DC staff.