New York - New York State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo on Monday introduced new legislation, endorsed by leaders of the New York State Senate and Assembly, that would increase penalties on those caught trying to record films in movie theaters for piracy purposes.

Cuomo citied industry reports that found over 50% of illegally recorded movies are filmed in New York's theaters.

The Piracy Protection Act would increase the penalty from the current mere "violation" and small fee, to a misdemeanor for first offenses -- with penalties of up to a year in jail and $1,000 fine -- and felony charges with higher penalties for repeat offenders.

In addition to the proposed legislation, Cuomo added that he is creating a new Special Assistant Attorney General to coordinate local and state law enforcement efforts against film piracy.

"New York has become the hub for a criminal network dedicated to film piracy," said Cuomo. "We are all paying a price for the leniency given to this type of organized crime, and I will not let it continue on my watch."

Related Links:
http://www.oag.state.ny.us/press/2008/may/may5a_08.html

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080505/tc_nm/piracy_ny_dc_2 (Reuters)