New York joins the MPAA

"New York City has been recruited as a corporate enforcement agency by Hollywood's MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America).

"Flanked by producer Jane Rosenthal and MPAA's Mike Robinson," says Variety, NYC mayor Michael Bloomberg yesterday signed legislation that'll turn anyone who camcords a movie into a criminal.

The new law upgrades so-called film piracy, "from a violation with a $250 fine to a misdemeanor that carries up to six months in jail and penalties of up to $5,000," says Associated Press.

The announcement was timed to coincide with 'anti-piracy' advertisements described as public service announcements." -- Read more