i2Coalition, Broad Coalition Unite in Support of Expanded CBM Program

Over the past few years, members of the Internet infrastructure industry have become increasingly aware of the destructive impacts that patent assertion entities, or patent trolls, have on innovation and the economy as a whole. The frivolous lawsuits filed by patent trolls cost companies valuable time and resources to the tune of $29 billion in 2011 alone and that number continues to grow. Unfortunately, patent trolls are a systemic problem and impact a broad range of businesses across the economy. However, fortunately, we are not alone in the fight for patent reform.

Yesterday, the i2Coalition and more than 20 other organizations, representing thousands of companies, sent a letter to the Judiciary Committee in support of expanding the Covered Business Method (CBM) at the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. CBM review allows targeted companies a less expensive alternative to dispute low-quality patents. The full text of the letter may be viewed on Patent Progress [PDF].

Businesses uniting for reform include grocery stores, airlines, casinos, and restaurants. A Washington Post article by Timothy B. Lee details the groups and companies co-signing the letter: Patent law is so broken that casinos, supermarkets, and realtors are demanding change. The wide-range of companies only further underscores the need for reform.

Learn more about the i2Coalition’s positions on patent reform by visiting our public policy page. Want to help? Check out our website for ways you can help and learn more about joining us in our efforts to fight patent trolls by becoming a member.