Opposition to Research Works Act

"As both a publisher and a membership organization, the MLA [Modern Language Association] understands that a publisher’s ability to earn revenue from the services that it provides need not be hindered by the provision of broad public access to scholarly work. Preprint archives, for example, need not compete with formal publications. New business models for the sustainability of open access publications are developing. Unnecessary limits on the free flow of ideas compromise a robust exchange of information and knowledge. In reviewing the language of the Research Works Act and considering the implications of its provisions, the MLA concludes that this legislation has significant negative ramifications for the future of public access to scholarly material and research. The association therefore opposes passage of this legislation...."