State lawmakers vote to repel pirates

The California State Assembly passed a nonbinding resolution Tuesday condemning the Internet piracy of music, movies and software. The state legislature, which numbers technology and entertainment companies among its most well-heeled constituents, has increasingly been focusing on digital media issues in recent months, but has passed no enforceable legislation addressing piracy.

The resolution advised parents to educate their children that downloading copyrighted material online is no different than shoplifting. Lawmakers also called on businesses and universities to implement technical measures blocking online piracy. Other states have begun passing copyright bills that mirror or extend controversial federal rules applying to digital works.