Leo W. Gerard, International President of the United Steelworkers (USW) issued the following statement today in advance of President Obama signing into law the Leahy-Smith America Invents Act (H.R. 1249) passed by both houses of Congress.

"During the past four years, the USW has been representing the interest of American workers in the patent reform legislation under consideration by Congress. President Obama's signature will help insure that the U.S. patent system can continue to promote the economic growth and jobs that come from innovation.

"The USW sought strong protection for intellectual property as key to good jobs in this country. America is the world's best innovator, but if our system of intellectual property protection doesn't encourage a commitment in research and development, then our domestic companies won't make the investments in plant, equipment and job creation that will sustain economic growth, and put Americans back to work ... more