What are the laws governing the use of non-profit logos and trademarks?
In Washington, the laws governing the use of non-profit logos and trademarks are outlined in the Registration of Service Mark and Trademark Act (RCW 19.77). This law regulates the use of service marks and trademarks in the state of Washington. To use a non-profit logo in Washington, a company must first register the mark with the Washington State Secretary of State’s office. This will ensure that no other organization is using the logo or trademark and that the logo will be protected. Once registered, the organization using the logo must also abide by certain rules. These rules include: any use of the logo must be used in association with a non-profit organization; the logo cannot be used to promote or endorse a product or service; and the logo must be used in accordance with the permission of the non-profit organization. Furthermore, the organization may also choose to trademark the logo and register it with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Carrying out this additional step will help the organization gain additional protection of the logo and ensure that it will remain the sole property of the organization in the United States. In conclusion, the use of non-profit logos and trademarks in Washington must abide by the Registration of Service Mark and Trademark Act and any trademarks must be registered with the USPTO. Doing so will help to protect the unique identity of the non-profit organization and ensure that other organizations cannot copy or use the logo for their own purposes.
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