Some weeks ago, we wrote (see Waving the Flag) of the sterling efforts of Thompson/Center Arms Company to protect American jobs and America’s technological lead in the critical field of muzzle-loading firearms by suing foreign companies which had the temerity to infringe Thompson/Center’s patents.
In addition to the lawsuit, filed in federal district court in Massachusetts, Thompson/Center lodged a complaint with the United States International Trade Commission, seeking a “permanent exclusion order” barring the importation of any firearms or components covered by the aforesaid patents.
We are now happy to report that, in response to this complaint, the Commission has – in the manner of governmental bodies everywhere – launched an investigation; in this instance, an investigation into the question of possible patent infringement. “The [ITC] has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. The [ITC] will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time.” Well, now we can all rest easy, knowing the government is investigating the matter.