June 29, 2018
Marrakesh Treaty and Implementing Legislation Pass in Senate
Late on June 28, 2018, the United States Senate passed the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who are Blind, Visually Impaired, or Otherwise Print Disabled and also approved the treaty's implementing legislation (S. 2559). The Marrakesh Treaty helps facilitate access to published works for persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled, which is particularly important in developing countries. The implementing legislation now moves to the U.S. House of Representatives. Thus far, 39 countries have ratified and implemented the treaty.
“Publishers greatly appreciate the actions by Senate leadership to advance ratification of the Marrakesh Treaty,” said Maria A. Pallante, President and CEO, Association of American Publishers. “We hope the House will now act quickly so that the Treaty and legislation can be sent to the President for his signature.”