Congress recently passed legislation that will strengthen intellectual property protections for U.S companies.
The Prioritizing Resources and Organization for Intellectual Property (PRO-IP) Act of 2008, originally introduced in the Senate by Senators Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Arlen Specter (R-Pa.), Evan Bayh (D-Ind.) and George Voinovich (R-Ohio), was passed by the Senate on Sept. 26 and the House on Sept. 28.
The Pro-IP Act increases civil and criminal laws against counterfeiting and piracy, and establishes permanent programs in which the U.S. government works with industry and foreign governments to fight global piracy. Under the new law, signed by President Bush, counterfeiters will face stiffer criminal penalties, especially if the products potentially affect consumer safety. At the same time, the new law does not change the basic requirement that businesses must first register their copyrights, trademarks and patents with the appropriate government authorities in order to establish enforceable legal rights.
Several aftermarket associations recently issued statements applauding passage of the new bill.
In a statement released Oct. 14, the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) expressed gratitude to President Bush for quickly signing the legislation into law.
“This legislation will go a long way to address protection of intellectual property,” said Bob McKenna, president and CEO of MEMA. “More importantly, it recognizes the unique needs of manufacturers and provides for a Government Accountability Office study to address possible solutions. We are very grateful to the President and to Congress for moving this important issue forward.”
The Specialty Market Equipment Association (SEMA) said in a statement that it also recognizes the value of this legislation for the aftermarket.
“Lawmakers have taken an important step in helping combat the scourge of counterfeiting,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA’s president and CEO. “Our industry is all about innovation, technology and quality. Counterfeiters rob our companies of those valuable assets. This provides the U.S. government with new tools and resources to fight intellectual property thieves.”
