Issues
The creative sector holds a unique place in our American culture. Creative works are one of our most precious exports, consistently generating a positive trade balance with other countries. In 2012, the economic contributions of U.S. copyright industries reached new heights, contributing more than $1 trillion to the GDP, according to the International Intellectual Property Alliance. Our movies, music, computer software, books and many other copyright dependent industries cannot be duplicated anywhere else in the world.
The Congressional Creative Rights Caucus supports the rights of creators and promotes principles of copyright that encourage the continued creation and dissemination of creative works by artists, including in new and innovative ways. More importantly, the Caucus aims to help the public understand that we cannot judge the entertainment industry by how well famous Hollywood or music stars are doing. In fact, the majority of people who make up the creative community are everyday Americans who work hard to make a living in the arts.
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) releases an annual Special 301 Report on Intellectual Property Rights, on the adequacy and effectiveness of U.S. trading partners' protection and enforcement of our intellectual property rights (IPR). In 2013, the Office placed 10 countries on the "Priority Watch List," which means they represent the most significant concerns regarding insufficient IPR protection or enforcement, or otherwise limited market access for creators.