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BIO Statement on Supreme Court Ruling in Impression Products v. Lexmark International

Washington, DC (May 30, 2017) – Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) President and CEO Jim Greenwood issued the following statement in response to the Supreme Court’s ruling in Impression Products  v. Lexmark International.

“BIO is concerned that today’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling in the case of Impression Products  v. Lexmark International could make it more difficult for patients across the world to gain access to critical therapies. The biotechnology industry is overwhelmingly comprised of small companies that rely on the stability and dependability of the patent system to bring innovative technologies to market. We fear this ruling will undermine that stability. The decision systematically undercuts innovative companies willing to sell their products at discounted prices for special uses, such as furthering scientific research and helping underserved populations. By extending the reach of U.S. patent law to foreign transactions that have nothing to do with domestic markets, the Court’s decision creates counterproductive uncertainty for U.S. innovators and their customers.

“BIO will work with our member companies to help them understand and comply with this ruling and adjust their intellectual property strategies accordingly.”