Software distribution and the GPL

[bkeep]

I am not really sure where to put this post so I will post it here and if the mods choose they can move it.

As a few of you know I have released a opensource script built using the Smarty template engine and I have recently integrated another opensource script for zip code searches Both are licensed under the GPL as is my script.

The question is, do I need to distribute the original versions of their scripts along with my modified versions of their scripts? or can I just post a link to their website? I have of course left the original header copyright information intact but I am just curious as to what the correct course of action is.

Best Regards,
Brandon

[ytswy]

IANAL

I don't think there is any requirement to distribute previous versions - you just have to provide access to the source for any object code you distribute - assuming this is all php this is obviously a non-issue since it is an interpreted language.

As long as you are not restricting the rights of those you distribute your derivative work to in ways that are GPL incompatible, I don't think you have any further legal responsibilities.

[bkeep]

Thanks for your answer I had read through the GPL a few times and as I am not so good with lawyer speak, I wasn't sure. Thanks for the clarification.

Best Regards,
Brandon