LOS ANGELES – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA), Directors Guild of America (DGA), International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, Its Territories and Canada (IATSE), and Screen Actors Guild (SAG) today released the following statement:

“We applaud Chairman Genachowski for the sentiments he expressed today and his recognition that the Internet must be a safe and secure place for lawful content and not a haven for illegal activity of any kind, including copyright infringement.  We are gratified that today’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking adopted today will state that “reasonable network management” incorporates the ability to stop unlawful distribution of content online.  As the Guilds and unions that represent the working face of our industry – largely people whose names are unknown but whose creativity and skills are put to work daily to create the films, TV programs, and recorded music that are watched and listened to by billions of people around the world – we appreciate Chairman Genachowski’s awareness that their jobs, their ability to support their families, and their contribution to American culture is at stake.  We look forward to reviewing the entire NPRM and to working with the Chairman and the Commission to ensure that broadband becomes available to all Americans and that the great intellectual property our country creates is protected.”