Thank you for contacting me about the PROTECT IP Act of 2011 (S. 968). I appreciate having the benefit of your comments on this issue.
The PROTECT IP Act of 2011 was introduced in the Senate on May 26, 2011, in an effort to protect Americans’ property rights by allowing the Attorney General, in limited circumstances, to take action against foreign websites that are solely dedicated to breaking America’s copyright or trademark laws. Current law already allows similar action for domestic websites.
As you may know, there are an increasing number of websites, often foreign-based, that exist to illegally sell counterfeit pharmaceuticals, pirated copies of still-in-theatres movies, and other stolen property. These websites cost American businesses millions of dollars and harm American consumers who unwittingly purchase dangerous counterfeit products. The PROTECT IP Act would create a mechanism for shutting down those websites—and only those websites—that are solely dedicated to the flagrant violation of American intellectual property laws.
It is appropriate that Congress should act to protect Americans’ property rights online. Protecting citizens’ property is one of the most fundamental purposes for which governments are formed. Our Founding Fathers understood this and, through the commerce and copyright powers enumerated in Article I of the Constitution, granted Congress the power to protect American's intellectual property. However, you may be certain that I will oppose any legislation that will censor the internet or otherwise infringe upon an individual’s First Amendment rights.
I appreciate having the opportunity to represent Texans in the United States Senate. Thank you for taking the time to contact me.
Sincerely,
JOHN CORNYN
United States Senator
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