White House Unveils National Intellectual Property Enforcement Strategy
On June 22, President Obama’s Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator (IPEC) Victoria Espinel unveiled the administration’s national intellectual property strategy, outlining 33 enforcement strategy action items that fall within six categories of focus for the United States: (1) leading by example; (2) increasing transparency; (3) ensuring efficiency and coordination; (4) enforcing our rights internationally; (5) securing our supply chain; and (6) building a data-driven government.
Espinel was joined by U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk, Attorney General Eric Holder, Vice President Joe Biden, Commerce Secretary Gary Locke and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano in presenting the report.
Espinel noted: “As a result of what we, the United States government, have committed to do with this plan, I say to those who are suffering from infringement, help is on the way. We understand the problems that you face, and we will work to make things better… . For those of you who have for too long abused the rights of America’s creators, I have a warning for you: We are committed to putting you out of business.”
Biden added that “Piracy hurts. It hurts our economy,” adding that, “Piracy is theft — clean and simple. It’s smash and grab… . Intellectual property is no different.”
A video of press conference is available.
BMI senior executives had previously met with Espinel to discuss BMI’s position on various intellectual property issues and provide input on developing new, more effective means of enforcement.
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