Rep. Lofgren Statement on Intellectual Property Bill

Press Release

Rep. Lofgren Statement on Intellectual Property Bill

Washington, D.C. - Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose) issued the following statement in response to the introduction on H.R. 4279, Prioritizing Resources and Organization for Intellectual Property Act of 2007.

I am pleased to see the subcommittee addressing international piracy and the protection of intellectual property. It is an issue where all sides agree that there is a problem and that we need to take action. I am encouraged by the parts of this bill that would attack that problem. It is beyond galling to see intellectual property rights of American businesses blatantly disregarded, particularly in China and Russia. This is not just a matter of trade and economics. As recent examples have shown, counterfeit goods imported into the United States can be immensely unsafe and, indeed, fatal.

However, I am puzzled and deeply troubled by the parts of HR 4279 that seem to have nothing to do with this problem, and will have serious negative consequences for innovation and economic growth in this country. I am particularly concerned about Section 104 of this bill, which would exorbitantly increase statutory damages for infringement of compilations. This Section was not part of the Administration's proposal. Nor was it endorsed by the Coalition Against Counterfeiting and Piracy. Section 104 would do next to nothing to deter commercial infringement or infringement by individuals. On the other hand, it will deter legitimate innovation and place American innovators at a significant disadvantage with respect to their competitors abroad.

As a life long resident of Silicon Valley, I have always been a strong supporter of the rights of intellectual property holders. This legislation, however, fails to balance the needs of intellectual property holders with those of innovators. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Judiciary Committee to find that necessary balance.

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