"The bill does not violate First Amendment rights to free speech because copyright piracy is not speech. America’s copyright industry is an important economic engine, and I believe copyright owners should be able to prevent their works from being illegally duplicated and stolen. The protection of intellectual property is particularly vital to California’s thriving film, music, and high-technology industries. I understand you have concerns about the 'PROTECT IP Act.' While I voted in favor of this bill when it was before the Senate Judiciary Committee, I have also been working with California high-technology businesses to improve the bill and to address the concerns of high-tech businesses, public interest groups and others. I recognize the bill needs further changes to prevent it from imposing undue burdens on legitimate businesses and activities, and I will be working to make the improvements, either by working with Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-VT) or through amendments on the Senate floor."

Part of unanimous vote of approval by Senate Judiciary committee to move PIPA forward.

The Senate Judiciary committee voted unanimously to move COICA forward.