Press Release

CPF Statement Supporting the “Patent Litigation and Innovation Act of 2013”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 10, 2013

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Coalition for Patent Fairness (CPF) welcomes the introduction of the Patent Litigation and Innovation Act of 2013 by Representatives Jeffries and Farenthold. The bill reflects a bipartisan recognition of the need to address systematic patent litigation abuses. We commend Representatives Jeffries and Farenthold for their leadership.

The impact of patent trolls is growing dramatically across the U.S. economy. The number of troll suits has quadrupled since 2005 and now represents a majority of all patent litigation. Most targets are small- and medium-sized companies from a broad range of industries, with the majority of suits arising outside the tech sector.

That’s why it is essential for Congress to continue its work at identifying and proposing solutions to the problem. The Jeffries-Farenthold legislation provides greater transparency in the litigation process with heightened pleading standards. It would also ensure greater efficiency in patent litigation by staying discovery until critical questions before the court are resolved.

The Coalition for Patent Fairness has long advocated for reforms that will thwart abuses of the patent system, and we thank Representatives Farenthold and Jeffries for their support. We look forward to working with them and other Members of Congress to improve the patent system through patent litigation reform legislation.

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The Coalition for Patent Fairness is a diverse group of companies and industry associations dedicated to enhancing U.S. innovation, job creation, and competitiveness in the global market by modernizing and strengthening our nation’s patent system.

Contact: Kate Connors, [email protected]

For more information, visit http://www.patentfairness.org.