Given the increased use of the Internet and social media in this
fast-moving age of information and technology, the right of publicity is
becoming more problematic at the state level. Thus, this article attempts
to persuade lawmakers and the public that the right of publicity
must be modifed to keep up with the fast-progressing times. What follows
is a detailed analysis of the right ofpublicity and an argument for
why the right should be a federal right. Drawing heavily on intellectual
property scholarship and case law, this article examines the issues
and benefits surrounding the right of publicity, and uses these to advocate
for a federal right. Various case examples are provided to assist
in exploiting the problems with the right ofpublicity remaining a statebased
right. Additionally, the article provides a detailed look at how
the right of publicity, as a state-based right, is conflicting with federal
laws. Finally, the article concludes with suggestions on how to craft a
solid federal right ofpublicity statute.