From cancer therapies to clean energy breakthroughs, the fruits of American innovation are transforming lives. But around the world, our strategic competitors are chipping away at the very framework that makes this possible -- intellectual property (IP) rights. And in recent years, the U.S. government hasn't been fighting back.

It's time for a change.

This month, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) owes Congress an annual report on the global state of IP rights. Congress should utilize its oversight powers to ensure that the USTR delivers a strong defense of American innovation by, among other things, calling out countries that refuse to fairly protect IP.

Congress requires the USTR to produce the "Special 301 Report" to identify foreign governments that fail to protect intellectual property or unfairly block U.S. companies from their markets. When done right, the report is a powerful diplomatic tool. It shines a light on inequitable practices, and it empowers American officials to identify and negotiate appropriate reforms.

But in recent years, USTR officials have watered down their support for global IP rights by occasionally turning a blind eye to significant abuses.

Two troubling trends deserve........

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