In a significant move for photographers and filmmakers, President Biden has signed the FILM Act into law, streamlining the process for capturing images and footage in U.S. National Parks. Previously, individuals and small groups faced the cumbersome requirement of obtaining permits and paying fees for any commercial photography or filming on these public lands. The new legislation exempts groups of fewer than six people from these requirements, provided they adhere to park regulations and ensure their activities do not disrupt the environment or other visitors.
This development is particularly beneficial for independent creators and small production teams, who often found the previous permit system to be a barrier due to its complexity and potential costs. By eliminating these obstacles, the FILM Act empowers artists to document and share the natural beauty of America's National Parks without the fear of legal repercussions or financial burdens.
The passage of this law also underscores a commitment to upholding First Amendment rights on public lands. Advocacy groups, such as the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), have praised the legislation for removing unconstitutional barriers that previously hindered free expression. As FIRE Chief Counsel Bob Corn-Revere stated, "This new law allows filmmakers to share the beauty and stories of our national parks without facing jail or fines for how they use the footage."
For more detailed information on the FILM Act and its implications, you can refer to the official announcement on PetaPixel.
Also try to solve this week's Cinema Cypher.