White House Action On Patent Reform Highlights Why Congress Must Move Forward With Comprehensive, Bipartisan Legislation

The Internet Association Applauds President’s Commitment to Ending Patent Troll Abuses

Washington, D.C. – Today, Michael Beckerman, President and CEO of The Internet Association, which represents the interests of the world’s leading Internet companies, made the following statement regarding new efforts by the White House to strengthen America’s patent system and combat patent trolls:

“At a time when patent trolls are taking $80 billion out of the economy each year and threatening the livelihoods of businesses and workers across the country, The Internet Association welcomes the Administration’s new efforts to improve patent quality and transparency.

“At the same time, the seriousness of this problem, and the bipartisan support for addressing it, highlight why Congress must pass comprehensive patent reform legislation this year. It is our hope that the Senate will build on the House-passed Innovation Act and pass the strong reforms required to deter the abusive litigation practices of patent trolls wielding low-quality patents and promote innovation and economic growth.

“The time to act is now. We are encouraged by President Obama’s actions today and hope the Senate will soon take advantage of the strong bipartisan support for comprehensive patent reform.”

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