WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today introduced a bipartisan resolution designating July as National Anti-Counterfeiting Consumer Education and Awareness Month. The resolution also recognizes and celebrates the 75th anniversary of the signing of the Lanham Act which laid the foundation for modern trademark protection and safeguards consumers from counterfeit products.

“Knockoffs not only violate intellectual property rights; they also threaten the economy, consumers and innovation,” Grassley said.  “I’m glad to introduce this bipartisan resolution. Increased education and awareness efforts are critical to helping to put a stop to counterfeit activity and protect American business and ingenuity.”
In addition to Grassley, the resolution is cosponsored by Sens. Chris Coons (D-Del.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.).

Grassley has been a longtime fighter against waste, fraud and abuse that ultimately affects taxpayers. He serves as the co-chair of the Congressional Trademark Caucus. Grassley recently introduced legislation to crack down on counterfeit merchandise entering the U.S. He also recently spoke on the Senate floor about the increased risks and potential dangers that counterfeit merchandise pose to businesses and consumers.