WASHINGTON (March 8, 2006) — The House of Representatives approved the final version of the Stop Counterfeiting in Manufactured Goods Act by voice vote, about a month after the Senate passed the legislation by unanimous consent.
The bill now goes to President Bush, who is certain to sign it into law.
Originally sponsored by Rep. Joe Knollenberg, R-Mich., the bill expands current anti-counterfeiting law to mandate the destruction of all equipment used to make counterfeit goods. It also makes it illegal to sell labels, patches or medallions bearing counterfeit trademarks.
Virtually all automotive aftermarket associations supported the bill enthusiastically, including the Tire Industry Association, the Specialty Equipment Market Association, the Motor & Equipment Market Association and the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association.