WASHINGTON — The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation that would grant the president authority to appoint the Register of Copyrights, moving the position from selection by the Librarian of Congress to a presidential appointment requiring Senate confirmation.
Lawmakers approved the Legislative Branch Agencies Clarification Act, or H.R. 6028, by voice vote on June 8, 2026, sending the measure to the Senate. The bill would also alter oversight of the U.S. Copyright Office by removing it from direct supervision by the Library of Congress and transferring certain powers to the Register.
The legislation, introduced by Rep. Morgan Griffith, Republican of Virginia, addresses appointment procedures for several legislative branch agencies. It would establish a bipartisan congressional commission to appoint the Librarian of Congress and the Director of the Government Publishing Office, positions currently filled by presidential nomination.
The bill follows previous efforts and debates over the structure of the Copyright Office. It comes after reported tensions in 2025 involving the executive branch and the Register of Copyrights position. Proponents have described the changes as clarifications to improve accountability and align with constitutional considerations regarding the office's role.
Critics, including digital rights and library advocacy groups, have opposed the shift, arguing it could politicize the Copyright Office and increase industry influence over appointments. They contend that maintaining the office within the Library of Congress preserves its independence and connection to broader knowledge institutions.
"This bill surrenders the U.S. Copyright Office to the Trump Administration after their failed power grab last summer," Patrick Gallaher, Senior Policy Advocate at Public Knowledge, said in a statement following the House vote. "Making the Register subject to the political whims of the Executive risks undermining the American copyright system."
The Copyright Office administers copyright law, including registration, rulemaking on exemptions to anti-circumvention provisions and other functions that affect creators, users and technology companies. The Register serves as its director. Details on how the bill would affect specific operations, such as rulemaking authority, remain subject to interpretation as the measure advances.
The House passage marks the latest step in a process that began with committee consideration earlier in 2026. The bill now awaits action in the Senate, where it would require sufficient support to proceed. No timeline for Senate consideration has been confirmed.
Supporters and opponents agree the legislation has broader implications for the balance between branches of government in managing intellectual property policy. As of mid-June 2026, the full impact would depend on further legislative action and potential amendments.
