Des Moines Sun

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.), co-chairs of the Congressional Trademark Caucus, have announced the Senate's unanimous approval of a resolution to designate July as "National Anti-Counterfeiting and Consumer Education and Awareness Month." This bipartisan initiative seeks to highlight the economic significance of trademarks and their role in consumer protection.

Grassley and Coons were joined by Sens. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) in supporting the resolution.

"Counterfeit products threaten our economy and consumers’ health and well-being," stated Grassley. "I’m glad to lead this bipartisan effort to educate Americans on the dangers of illicit knockoffs and the economic value of trademarks."

Coons emphasized consumer confidence: "Americans should have confidence that the products they’re buying are legitimate and safe – that they have been tested for dangerous chemicals, comply with regulatory standards, and aren’t supporting criminal enterprises." He further noted that businesses need protection from intellectual property theft. "My resolution with my Congressional Trademark Caucus co-chair, Senator Grassley, protects American businesses, the public, and our economy by raising awareness of counterfeit goods," he added.

Tillis highlighted the risks posed by counterfeit products: "Counterfeit products hurt American businesses and put consumers at serious risk. I’m proud to support this resolution recognizing the importance of trademark protections."

Travis Johnson from the International Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition expressed concern over counterfeiting's broader impacts: “The true cost of counterfeiting cannot be measured in dollars alone, but in injuries to consumers caused by often dangerous fakes... We applaud the passage of S.Res. 314."

Steve Lamar from the American Apparel & Footwear Association also supported these efforts: “Illicitly traded goods—including apparel, footwear, accessories, and travel goods—undermine trusted American brands but also threaten jobs... AAFA applauds these essential national efforts."

Grassley has been an advocate for consumer safety and intellectual property rights. In 2021, he supported legislation ensuring transparency for third-party sellers online.