CONTACTS: Linda Rozett/Eric Wohlschlegel
(202) 463-5682 / 888-249-NEWS

 

Thursday, March 3, 2004

 

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United States Chamber of Commerce applauded the passage of the United States Patent and Trademark Fee Modernization Act (H.R. 1561), which will ensure the full funding of the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

 

“Full funding for the patent office reflects Congress’ commitment to American innovation,” said Bill Kovacs, Chamber vice president of environment, technology and regulatory affairs.  “Protecting intellectual property is vital to our economic prosperity and investment in new technologies.”

 

The Chamber has been a strong advocate for increased funding of the Patent and Trademark Office in an effort to help reduce the time it takes to complete the patent application process and improve the overall quality of those patents that are issued.  Enacting this legislation will enable businesses to better protect their ideas and creations through stronger intellectual property protections.

 

“Intellectual property-based enterprises employ over four million Americans reaching every sector of our economy – from manufacturing, to transportation, to healthcare,” continued Kovacs.  “As we move to an international economy, strong protections are vital to ensure America’s future competitiveness.”

 

The Chamber urges the Senate to act promptly to secure the long-term benefits to our economy.

 

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

 

# # #     

 

04-22