To the Editor:
There’s an idea looming in Congress and it threatens the core of our economy: small businesses. The biggest thing our country has is technology and the skills, know-how, excitement and innovation to create something new. One idea puts that all in jeopardy.
Recently Re. Bob (Goodlatte (R-Va.) released a draft discussion of a new patent reform bill. The draft amending the Section 18 of the America Invents Act would wake it much harder for small businesses that own a patent to enforce their own patent.
Specifically if this reform was enacted, U.S. innovators could be harmed by undermining the rights of patent holders; many valid patents could be inadvertently undermined by giving infringers a new procedural loophole to delay enforcement; and it will create uncertainty and stymie innovation.
As Alan Kay once said, “The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” Members of Congress, please do not threaten our innovation. Protect it and enhance it.
Michael McDonnell
River Forest