PIA's Michael Makin Testifies at Patent Troll Abuse Hearing
WASHINGTON, DC—December 17, 2013—Michael Makin, president and CEO of Printing Industries of America, has testified at the “Protecting Small Businesses and Promoting Innovation by Limiting Patent Troll Abuse” Hearing regarding the abusive patent litigation, such as patent troll activity against printing companies.
In his testimony, Makin stated:
“Unfortunately, the printing and graphic communications industry has attracted the attention of patent assertion entities or “patent trolls.” We believe this is the case because we are, in fact, small businesses and vulnerable to predatory legal actions which threaten our very viability.”
Makin continued, “Keep in mind, Mr. Chairman, that patent trolls do not innovate, do not promote economic growth, do not contribute to the greater good of education or scientific research. Most importantly, patent trolls do not create jobs—our businesses do.
“And yet the action of patent trolls threatens job creation, hinders entrepreneurship and, most frighteningly, intimidates hard working Americans for standing up for their rights. I have heard from dozens of printing companies who are even afraid to share their experiences for fear of retribution.
“Without a doubt, both small business and innovation drive the spirit and economy of this nation, and both should be protected from abusive patent trolls. We believe that a commonsense, practical solution that protects all users of the patent system is possible. But time is of the essence. The longer we wait, the longer we expose innocent companies to the peril of trolls, which fly in the face of entrepreneurship and fair play. We urge the Committee to take definitive and bold action,” Makin concluded.
For more information about Printing Industries of America’s Government Affairs Department and presence on Capitol Hill, please visit www.printing.org/govaffairs.
About Printing Industries of America
Printing Industries of America is the world’s largest graphic arts trade association, representing an industry with more than one million employees. It serves the interests of thousands of member companies. Together with its nationwide affiliate network, Printing Industries delivers products and services that enhance the growth, efficiency, and profitability of its members and the graphic communications industry through advocacy, education, research, and technical information.
Source: PIA.
