A new bill introduced on Capitol Hill Wednesday takes aim at the name “Redskins” and could have a dramatic effect on the football team.
The bill would stop the term "Redskins" from being trademarked.
While the bill does not mandate a name change specifically, it would no longer make business sense for an NFL team to continue using the name. Without a trademark, other businesses could sell products using the name without repercussion.
USA Today reports: "The bill by Del. Eni Faleomavaega, D-American Samoa, would amend existing law and cancel the federal registrations of trademarks that use the term 'redskin' in reference to Native Americans. It would also prevent the registration of future trademarks that use the word."
D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton is a co-sponsor of the bill. Norton has been outspoken about her belief the team needs to change its name.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE:
- Washington Redskins Trademark Challenged
- 'Skins GM: No Team Name Change
- Museum of American Indian Debates Redskins' Name
- Goodell on Redskins: "I Don't Think Anybody Wants to Offend Anybody"
- Gray: Name Would Be Discussed If 'Skins Return
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