Statement on House Judiciary Committee Passage of Innovation Act

Engine was pleased to see the House Judiciary Committee pass the Innovation Act this afternoon; we’re glad to see the process move forward and the commitment from members to patent reform. While there are still open questions regarding the pleading provision that need to be addressed, today’s amendment process left us in a much stronger place on several key provisions including venue and discovery. As this bill moves to the House floor, however, we cannot afford to have legislation weakened further.

Since 55% of troll targets are small businesses, comprehensive patent reform remains critical for the startup community. We look forward to working with the committee towards final legislation that truly protects startups from abusive litigation and gives them the tools necessary to defend themselves in court.