CEA Hails Issa, Wyden Intellectual Property Legislation

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OPEN Act Puts Forward Smart, Targeted Approach to Fighting Online Piracy

ARLINGTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® commends Rep. Darrell Issa and Sen. Ron Wyden and a group of bipartisan lawmakers for introducing The Online Protection and Enforcement of Digital Trade (OPEN) Act.

This bill addresses the problem of foreign infringing web sites and is a strong alternative to the Protect IP Act (PIPA) and the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA). SOPA and PIPA have generated a firestorm of opposition because their broad definitions could lead to the shutdown of legal and widely used U.S. websites.

“We appreciate the leadership of Rep. Issa and Sen. Wyden, and their bipartisan co-sponsors. The OPEN Act is a smart, targeted approach to the very real problem of foreign ‘rogue’ websites,” said CEA President and CEO Gary Shapiro. “For too long, some in this debate have presented a false choice – either accept Draconian, harmful legislation or let pirates run amok. By contrast, the OPEN Act provides a quick, effective way to shut down pirate sites without damaging legitimate companies or enriching trial lawyers.”

The OPEN Act empowers the International Trade Commission (ITC) to issue “cease and desist” orders against websites found to be dedicated to infringement. The ITC has years of experience addressing the problems of infringing foreign goods. The ITC approach offers quick and effective injunctive relief, and will not become a breeding ground for nuisance lawsuits.

“There is no reason for the content industry not to support the OPEN Act. It accomplishes their stated goals – shutting down offshore pirate websites while not impacting legitimate innovators,” Shapiro added. “We also commend the sponsors for their commitment to an open and public comment process. Inclusion of all stakeholders in the development of the bill – including everyday Internet users – will inevitably lead to more thoughtful and effective legislation.”

Anyone with an interest in the future of the Internet is encouraged to comment on the OPEN Act at www.keepthewebopen.com.

“We can stop pirates while maintaining an open, vibrant and thriving Internet,” Shapiro concluded. “We look forward to working with the co-sponsors and all stakeholders to see this bill become law."

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $190 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also owns and produces the International CES – The Global Stage for Innovation. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA’s industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org, www.DeclareInnovation.com and through social media: https://www.facebook.com/#!/CEAfeed, http://twitter.com/ceafeed, http://blog.ce.org/.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• CES Unveiled: The Official Press Event of the International CESJanuary 8, 2012, Las Vegas, NV

• 2012 International CESJanuary 10 - 13, 2012, Las Vegas, NV

• Digital Music Forum East February 22 - 23, 2012, New York, NY
• CEA Economic RetreatFeb 28 - Mar 2, 2012, Vail, CO
• LA Games ConferenceApril 23 - 24, 2012, Los Angeles, CA
• 2012 Spring Technology & Standards ForumMay 14 - 18, 2012, Dallas, TX
• CE WeekJune 25 - 29, 2012, New York, NY
• CEA Line ShowsJune 27 - 28, 2012, New York, NY
• CEA Industry ForumOctober 14 - 17, 2012, San Francisco, CA
• CEO Summit and Board RetreatOctober 17 - 19, 2012, CA

Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)Tim Doyle, 703-907-4322[email protected]CE.orgorLaurie Ann Phillips, 703-907-7654[email protected]

Source: Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)

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