Ross steps down as head of Copyright Alliance

Copyright Alliance executive director Patrick Ross announced Wednesday he is stepping down to return to a full-time writing career.

The nonprofit advocacy group is dedicated to protecting the rights of copyright holders. Members include organizations that represent musicians, songwriters, broadcasters, sports leagues such as NASCAR, and the film industry. The alliance's board of directors has begun a search for a new executive director; Ross will remain in his position while that search is under way.

Ross helped found the alliance in 2007 after leaving his position as senior fellow and vice president of The Progress & Freedom think tank. He also worked during the late 1980s for Senate Majority leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.). Prior to joining Reid's office, Ross spent 10 years as a reporter covering Capitol Hill and the independent regulatory agencies for Communications Daily, CNET News and other publications. He holds a B.A. in international relations from Pomona College.