CEA Commends Alternative Rogue Websites Framework and Open Discussion Process

ARLINGTON, Va. -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)^® issues the following statement in response to the draft framework for legislation unveiled today to counter the Senate’s PROTECT IP Act (PIPA) and the House counterpart, the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA):

CEA applauds the bipartisan group of lawmakers for their thoughtful and targeted approach to addressing the threat of foreign websites that exist solely to infringe on the intellectual property of innovative American companies.

Technology companies and their partners in the entertainment industry share a common goal of putting out of business those foreign websites that are dedicated to selling counterfeit products and stolen movies and music. The International Trade Commission (ITC) is the right entity to handle enforcement action against these foreign rogue websites. Legislative solutions like today’s bipartisan, bicameral draft would address the problem of illegal conduct without ensnaring lawful websites, squelching American innovation or infringing on the rights of lawfully acting consumers.

We also commend the sponsors for their commitment to an open and public comment process. Inclusion of all stakeholders in the development of the bill – including everyday Internet-using consumers – will inevitably lead to more thoughtful and effective legislation.

CEA looks forward to working with the sponsors and co-sponsors of this legislation to protect and promote innovation while we shut down foreign rogue actors.

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $190 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also owns and produces the International CES – The Global Stage for Innovation. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA’s industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org, www.DeclareInnovation.com and through social media: https://www.facebook.com/#!/CEAfeed, http://twitter.com/ceafeed, http://blog.ce.org/.

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