House Passes Bill Overhauling U.S. Copyright Office Structure

The House approved H.R. 6028, restructuring the U.S. Copyright Office's authority and operations.

On June 8, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 6028, the Legislative Branch Agencies Clarification Act, by voice vote. The legislation proposes significant changes to the U.S. Copyright Office's structure and governance.

Under the bill, the appointment power for the Register of Copyrights would shift from the Library of Congress to the President, with the candidate subject to Senate confirmation. This marks a departure from the Copyright Office's traditional supervision under the Library of Congress, where the Librarian also appoints it head. H.R. 6028 also transfers appointment authority for the Librarian of Congress and the Director of the Government Publishing Office to a bipartisan congressional commission, though the bill does not specify commission criteria.

In addition to these governance changes, the bill establishes an independent Office of Inspector General within the Copyright Office, endowed with law enforcement powers. The Government Publishing Office is also tasked with developing a human capital management system to enhance agency operations.

Supporters like Rep. Morgan Griffith emphasize accountability and clear governance as benefits: "Accountability, clarity and good governance. That is what my pro-Article I bill delivers to help institutions serve Congress and the American people." However, advocacy group Re:Create cautions about rushing the bill, warning it may "risk serious unintended consequences by separating the U.S. Copyright Office from the Library of Congress."

The bill was introduced on November 12, 2025, and envisions a 10-year term for the Register of Copyrights once appointed under the new framework.

These changes are poised to impact legal professionals, content creators, and technology providers involved in copyright registrations and disputes by altering agency oversight, appointment processes, and introducing new enforcement structures.

Yes, but: Opponents warn that separating the Copyright Office from the Library of Congress may cause unintended negative consequences and urge slowing the bill's passage.