The House has repeatedly made clear that IP needs to be protected. The House voted overwhelmingly in June to establish U.S. policy in opposition to any climate change treaty that could harm IP rights as part of the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, and the State Department's appropriations bill includes text requiring the agency to certify robust IP protections. Cap-and-trade legislation that passed the House last month said IP rights are vital for R&D investment. Sensenbrenner wrote to Energy Secretary Steven Chu in April asking for details about the administration's position on IP rights for energy technology, and Chu responded in May. In the letter, Chu affirmed his belief in protecting IP but noted opportunities to develop technologies through shared research investments.

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