The Need to Evaluate the Benefits and Costs of a Proposed Trademark Treaty and Implementing Legislation

The Department of Commerce proposes to change the U.S. trademark law. Commerce vigorously supports the proposed international Trademark Registration Treaty, to which the United States is a signator. If Congress is to ratify the treaty, changes in U.S. trademark laws are necessary. The proposed legislative changes will not only affect the registration of international trademarks but will greatly alter the process and methods for registering domestic trademarks in this country. The changes will affect all U.S. business firms registering trademarks.