SIIA Joins Coalition Urging Senate to Oppose the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act (PERA)

September 16, 2024

byStaff

Policy

A coalition of U.S. businesses and organizations, including the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA), has sent a letter to Senators Durbin and Graham urging opposition to the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act (PERA), S. 2140. The coalition argues that PERA would fundamentally change the U.S. patent system, allowing non-technical ideas and activities to be patented if they involve technology in any capacity. They warn that this shift would result in widespread litigation against U.S. businesses, from tech companies to small retailers, and would likely drive up drug prices by enabling pharmaceutical companies to secure weak patents that hinder competition.

The letter cites several court cases, such as Alice Corp. v. CLS Bank and Apple v. Ameranth, that illustrate the dangers of allowing vague or overly broad patents to be enforced. The coalition also emphasizes that Section 101 of the U.S. Patent Act plays a crucial role in limiting patents to genuine technological advancements and warns that eliminating these safeguards would open the door to abusive patent practices. The group calls on the Senate Judiciary Committee to reject PERA to protect American businesses, consumers, and innovation.

Full Letter Here