Copyright Act (17 U.S.C.): Fundamental federal legislation that protects original works of authorship, including software. Establishes basic rights for copyright holders and terms of protection.
Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA): Federal law that criminalizes circumvention of digital rights management and provides safe harbor provisions for online service providers.
Computer Fraud and Abuse Act: Federal legislation that addresses unauthorized access to computer systems and can affect license terms regarding permitted use.
Federal Trade Commission Act: Federal consumer protection law that affects how software can be marketed and what claims can be made about its functionality.
Uniform Computer Information Transactions Act (UCITA): State law adopted in Virginia and Maryland that specifically governs software licenses and other computer information transactions.
State Consumer Protection Laws: Various state-specific laws that protect consumers from unfair practices and affect warranty terms and disclaimers in software licenses.
State Contract Laws: State-specific laws governing contract formation, enforcement, and interpretation that affect license agreements.
Uniform Commercial Code (UCC): Standardized state laws governing commercial transactions that may apply to software licensing, particularly regarding warranties and sales.
First Sale Doctrine: Legal concept limiting copyright holders' rights after first sale, though often contracted around in software licenses.
Privacy Laws: Including CCPA and state-specific privacy regulations that govern how software can collect, use, and protect personal data.
