Among the many detailed ideas included in the Joint Strategic Plan, published today by President Obama's IP enforcement coordinator, is the promise of the government to help and listen to "victims" (clarified as rights holders) of IP infringement - and even a full review of IP laws.

Although this latter provision will soak up a lot of resources across many government agencies, it is necessary given the ever-changing world trademark owners find themselves in - specifically with regards the Internet. Victoria Espinel's bold plan acknowledges that, "due to changes in technology and the growing sophistication of IP violators, the US Government must ensure that IP laws continue to effectively and comprehensively combat infringement".

The plan also documents some recent successes of US IP enforcement efforts, such as the seizure earlier this month of 300,000 counterfeit handbags bearing fake trademarks of major brands such as Chanel, Gucci and Fendi.

"The US economy leads the world in innovation and creativity thanks to American inventors, artists and workers," writes Espinel on the White House blog. "Our ability to develop new technology, designs and artistic works supports jobs and allows us to export great new products and services around the world. Our citizens need to feel confident that they can invest in new innovation and intellectual property, knowing it will be safe from theft. Ensuring that our ideas and ingenuity are protected helps us create jobs and increase our exports."

There are lots of positive noises coming from the US government with regards to intellectual property - and even trademarks specifically. Let's hope the right people can follow through.

The full strategic plan can be found here.