Video Camera Law?

I just read an article from June 2007 about this. I think lots of it has to do with YouTube and tourists making videos in public places like Times Square, Rockefeller Center, ground zero, or anyone congregating on public property for more than 30 minutes and filming. Apparently, they want a cut of the money that you may make for filming. But not only do photographers get caught in this, but so do your average tourist who just wants a memorable video to show later from his vacation. They were talking about having to have a permit to film, too, and perhaps insurance. This was back in 2007, so apparently they passed the law and it is now in effect. Some were upset that it gave officers the ability to use their own discretion in whom was violating the law. It had stated it would only apply to those making movies and such, but others said the language was so vague that anybody could be held liable, even your average person out snapping pictures. Man, this country is getting to the place you aren't going to be able to step on public property without having a permit! I guess we all need to watch out; it may be coming to our towns!

I'm sure the litigation is huge. Imagine, you're sitting at home one night watching teev and all of a sudden there's your ugly face on the screen. There could be any number of reasons for this to be a bad thing. Someone, unbeknownst to you has filmed their family on a picnic and you're also in the picture. I can see this being a problem. Australian/American Home Videos have a lot to answer for.

Never heard of that one before, but than again I don't live in New York. I use a video camera regularly and haven't gotten in trouble for it, so not to sure about that one. It could be one of those laws that are set for federal buildings though, just to protect them from possible terrorist attacks maybe. *Shrugs* I'll have to see what I can dig up on that one.