Bill to Combat Distribution of Counterfeit Goods via Rogue Web Sites Introduced
On October 26, 2011, a bipartisan group of Representatives introduced legislation that would expand protections for America’s intellectual property (IP) and combat the illegal distribution of counterfeit goods via rogue websites. H.R. 3261 would (i) allow the Attorney General to seek injunctions against foreign websites that steal and sell U.S. innovations and products, (ii) increase criminal penalties for individuals who traffic in counterfeit medicine and military goods, and (iii) improve coordination between intellectual property enforcement agencies in the U.S.
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According to the sponsor, Representative Smith (R-TX), Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, H.R. 3261 would “help stop the flow of revenue to rogue websites and ensure that the profits from U.S. innovations go to U.S. innovators. H.R. 3261 would also “prevent online thieves from selling counterfeit goods in the U.S., expand international protections for intellectual property, and protect U.S. consumers from dangerous counterfeit products.”
Hearing on H.R. 3261 Scheduled for Nov 16
The House Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing on H.R. 3261 on November 16, 2011.
House Judiciary Committee press release on H.R. 3261 available here.
Chamber of Commerce press release available here.