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Lawmakers Take Another Shot At Patent Reform

Posted by timothy on from the but-I-thought-of-it-first dept.

narramissic writes "Patent reform legislation was introduced yesterday (PDF), which, if it passes, would be the first major overhaul of US patent law in more than 50 years. (It should be noted that the new legislation is very similar to the Patent Reform Act of 2007, which died on the Senate floor last year.) The legislation would bring US patent law in line with global laws, and introduce 'reasonable royalty' provisions, which change the way damages are calculated and would reduce the likelihood of massive payouts for some patent holders. Representatives from Google, HP and Intel were quick to say that the changes would cut down on frivolous patent lawsuits. But the Innovation Alliance, a group representing patent-holders that oppose the legislation, said that it would 'devalue all patents, invite infringement — including from companies in China, India and other countries — and generate more litigation that will further strain the courts.'"

4 of 154 comments (clear)

  1. What? No Child Porn & Terrorism? by Bob9113 · · Score: 5, Funny

    But the Innovation Alliance, a group representing patent-holders that oppose the legislation said that it would 'devalue all patents, invite infringement -- including from companies in China, India and other countries -- and generate more litigation that will further strain the courts.'

    These guys really need a new PR firm. Vague insinuations about the threat of SEAsia and clogged courts is soooo pre-9/11. It's all about child porn and terrorism now, guys - get with the program.

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    1. Re:What? No Child Porn & Terrorism? by soren202 · · Score: 3, Funny

      Reforming patent laws would flood the market with cheap knock off products of currently patented technology. This flood would spur the growth of child porn leading to more abused children, as well as allow terrorists in the middle east to purchase newer, up to date technology.

      Don't support perverts and terrorists! Help the children and support America! Don't pass patent reform laws!

  2. Re:Innovation Alliance == Patent Trolls by techno-vampire · · Score: 3, Funny

    Didn't you know? Innovation Alliance is just a cover name. The group's real name is Patent Troll Association of America: PTAA.

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  3. Re:Innovation Alliance == Patent Trolls by StikyPad · · Score: 3, Funny

    Great New Association Acronym. Too bad they'll get sued by the Patent Infringement Troll Association.

    BTW, New Acronyms Make Baby Lesus Angry.

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