U.S. Chamber Hails Illinois Anti-Counterfeiting Bill as Vital to Protecting Innovative Economy

U.S. Chamber Hails Illinois Anti-Counterfeiting Bill as Vital to Protecting Innovative Economy
Law Will Strengthen Enforcement Efforts and Criminal Penalties

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Global Intellectual Property Center (GIPC) hailed a new anti-counterfeiting law passed by the Illinois legislature and scheduled to be signed into law today as vital to protecting the state's innovative economy by strengthening enforcement efforts and criminal penalties.

"Protecting innovation and creativity is vital to the economy of Illinois, and this new anti-counterfeiting law will help protect consumers and legitimate businesses in the state," said Dr. Mark Esper, executive vice president of the U.S. Chamber's GIPC. "Under this new law, further enforcement will protect these industries and in turn play a role in economic revitalization."

The new law, which is based on the Chamber's model state legislation, codifies the definition of a counterfeit mark to be in line with federal law and includes increased penalties for repeat offenders and criminals trafficking illicit goods that could cause bodily injury or death. The legislation, which passed unanimously in both the House and Senate, is a collaborative effort between House Majority Whip Ira Silverstein, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, law enforcement, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, the International Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition, and the International Trademark Association.

"The counterfeiting and piracy of products is dangerous to the consumer and denies legitimate business to employers that grow the economy and provide jobs," said Esper. "This law empowers businesses to continue to innovate while sending a clear signal to counterfeiters that their crimes will not be tolerated."

The Chamber's Global Intellectual Property Center is working around the world to champion IP as vital to creating jobs, saving lives, advancing global economic growth and generating breakthrough solutions to global challenges.

The U.S. Chamber is the world's largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

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