Stop Counterfeiting in Manufactured Goods Law Enacted

On March 16, 2006, President Bush has signed into law H.R. 32, the Stop Counterfeiting in Manufactured Goods Act. Among other things, the law amends the federal criminal code on trafficking in counterfeit goods and services to include trafficking in labels or similar packaging of any type or nature, with knowledge that a counterfeit mark has been applied to such labels or packaging, the use of which is likely to cause confusion, to cause mistake, or to deceive. Along with restitution to the owner of the mark that was counterfeited, the new law requires forfeiture of any property derived, directly or indirectly, from the proceeds of the violation as well as any property used, or intended to be used in relation to the offense.