Coalition Statement on
FTC Hearing: "The Evolving IP Marketplace"

Washington, D.C. — The following statement is from Gary Griswold, Chairman of the Coalition for 21st Century Patent Reform and former President and Chief Intellectual Property Counsel, 3M Innovative Properties Company following the Federal Trade Commission's hearing on The Evolving IP Marketplace.

"The Federal Trade Commission accurately notes that there have been significant changes in the patent system since its "IP Report" was issued in 2003. As observed by the FTC, the courts and stakeholders are only now exploring the full implications of recent decisions by the Supreme Court and Federal Circuit. We agree with the FTC that the extent and cumulative impact of these decisions, new business models, and proposed changes in the patent system are poorly understood. It is clear that there is a need to gain a better understanding of the new patent landscape before proposing changes. We applaud the FTC for initiating a current look at the patent landscape. It is noteworthy that only one of today's 15 panelists represent a company involved in manufacturing. Given the nation's current economic conditions, we need a strong manufacturing sector that is hiring workers and making products that reinforce America's position in the world as a leader in innovation and ingenuity. Our coalition looks forward to the FTC having additional hearings where the views of representatives from America's manufacturing sector will be heard."

-- 30 --

The coalition has nearly 50 members and includes many of the nation's leading manufacturers and researchers. The coalition's steering committee includes, 3M, Caterpillar, General Electric, Johnson & Johnson, Eli Lilly and Procter & Gamble. The coalition has members in a variety of industry sectors including: Aerospace and Defense, Chemical, Consumer, Computers, Diversified Financials, Diversified Technology, Energy, Food Production, Forest & Paper Products, Health Care, Household & Personal Products, Industrial Equipment, Medical Equipment & Devices, Network & Communications, Payroll Services, Pharmaceutical/Biotechnology, Semiconductors & Electronic Components, and Transportation Equipment. Visit www.patentsmatter.com for more information.

Download as PDF