Anti-Counterfeiting Bill Passes US House

(Akron/Tire Review) The “Stop Counterfeiting in Manufactured Goods Act”, introduced by Rep. Joe Knollenberg (Republican) with the support of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), has passed the US House of Representatives.

The bill provides trademark owners with the same protection afforded to holders of copyrights by mandating the destruction of counterfeit goods and the forfeiture of any assets traceable to illegal counterfeiting activities. It will also permit the forfeiture of any property/equipment – tooling, raw materials, packaging etc used in conjunction with a violation. The bill also prohibits trafficking in counterfeit labels, patches, stickers, hangtags or medallions.

“Fake, poor quality brakes, brake fluid, tyres, headlights and other safety related parts and components have been found for sale,” noted Paul Foley, president of MEMA’s Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association and executive director of MEMA’s Brand Protection Council. “Counterfeiting is a crime that is stealing good American manufacturing jobs and hurting the brand image of legitimate manufacturers that play by the rules.”

Last year, MEMA established its Brand Protection Council to detect and prevent product counterfeiting and lobby for stronger laws and intellectual property rights protections. The next stop for the bill is the Senate Judiciary Committee.