Spring 1991 Congress considers but does not pass S.1096, the Motion Picture Anti-Piracy Act, a bill to stop the unauthorized copying of rental video tapes and outlaw certain consumer equipment.
July 1991 Representatives of the audio hardware and music industries announce agreement to seek compromise legislation dealing with digital audio recording technologies.
Aug 1991 Senator DeConcini and Representatives Brooks and Hughes introduce the Audio Home Recording Act guaranteeing right to tape, mandating a serial copy management system, and requiring manufacturers of digital audio equipment and media to pay a small royalty on their products.
Nov 1991 Senator Leahy introduces Cable Ready Equipment Act requiring cable providers to assure that cable systems are compatible with TV and VCR functions, and no extra converter boxes, remote controls, or fees are necessary for their operation with basic cable service.
