ARLINGTON, VA -- The National Association of Manufacturers has issued a statement in support of H.R. 1249, the America Invents Act.

Vice president for Tax and Domestic Economic Policy Dorothy Coleman said:

"The protection of intellectual property is of paramount importance to manufacturers. By ensuring that intellectual property is safeguarded, manufacturers can continue to compete in the global marketplace knowing that their products, innovations and ideas are secure.

"This legislation ensures a well-funded and properly staffed U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that can process applications in a timely manner, allowing manufacturers in the U.S. to bring their cutting-edge technological breakthroughs to the marketplace first. Furthermore, this measure will provide for the transition from a ‘first-to-invent’ to a ‘first-to-file’ system, eliminating the current costs and complexities that burden our patent system and put manufacturers in America at a competitive disadvantage.

"Manufacturers believe that the USPTO must have all of the available resources to ensure our patent system remains the best and most efficient in the world."

NAM is part of a coalition supporting H.R. 1249. To view a copy of the NAM’s letter to Congress, click here.