Is material located on U.S. Govt websites considered public and can it be used without penalty?

Question

Can businesses use reports and articles found on govt websites?

Answer 1

If they allow it to be accessed, it can be used. Like you said...it's public.

Answer 2

In short the answer is NO.

Reason: Original edited works are protected under the copywrite act.

There are 4 generally accepted exceptions in which you may do so
1) The purpose or character of the used is for nonprofit educational purposes
2) You do not use the entire article (and this is very subjective)
3) You do not collect a fee or have any such enumeration from using it
4) You give proper credit (cited referance)

ALL of these must come into play not to violate copywrite--AND the rules are subject to much interpretation in the courts.

When in doubt,seek the authors permission before using the cited work or subpart.

http://www.copyright.gov/fls/fl102.html

Answer 3

Yes it can be used. It is public information that used taxpayer money to do the research and publish the material. You cannot publish classified information - but this type of information should not be on a public website. If you want something and can't find it, you can request the information by using the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The government must respond to you or provide you with a specific reason why the information cannot be released (i.e - an ongoing investigation, classified material etc.)

While the information can be used and published, you should give credit to your source(s).

Answer 4

Subject to copyright laws.

Answer 5

yes, it can