Statement on Formation of Intellectual Property Task Force at Department of Justice

February 12, 2010


Statement from David Israelite, NMPA President and CEO

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 12, 2010

"Music publishers and songwriters applaud the news today that the Department of Justice is launching a task force to focus on intellectual property enforcement. The effort will bring together leaders from throughout the department to coordinate approach and maximize impact of efforts to combat theft. The importance of this kind of department-wide cooperation cannot be overstated, both operationally and as a signal of the Attorney General’s commitment to tackling the issue.

The music industry has felt acutely the impact of large-scale infringement. We appreciate the attention to this issue by the Attorney General and other Administration leaders.”

BACKGROUND

The U.S. Department of Justice today announced formation of a task force focused on intellectual property rights enforcement. Israelite headed a similar effort at the Justice Department under Attorney General Ashcroft. Read the official announcement: http://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/2010/February/10-ag-137.html

About the NMPA

Founded in 1917, the National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) is the trade association representing American music publishers and their songwriting partners. The NMPA’s mandate is to protect and advance the interests of music publishers and songwriters in matters relating to the domestic and global protection of music copyrights.