The United States International Trade Commission (USITC or I.T.C.) is an agency of the United States federal government that advises the legislative and executive branches on matters of trade. It is an independent, bipartisan entity that analyzes trade issues such as tariffs and competitiveness and publishes reports. As a quasi-judicial entity, the USITC investigates the impact of imports on U.S. industries, and directs actions against unfair trade practices, such as subsidies; dumping; and intellectual property infringement, including copyright infringement. Background and statutory authority The USITC was established by the U.S. Congress on September 8, 1916, as the U.S. Tariff Commission. In 1974, the name was changed to the U.S. International Trade Commission by section 171 of the Trade Act of 1974. Statutory authority for the USITC's responsibilities is provided by the following legislation: Tariff Act of 1930 Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1933 Trade Expansion Act of 1962 Trade Act of 1974 Trade Agreements Act of 1979 Trade and Tariff Act of 1984 Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 Uruguay Round Agreements Act of 1994 Mission The U.S. International Trade Commission seeks to: Administer U.S. trade remedy laws within its mandate in a fair and objective manner; Provide the President, Office of the United States Trade Representative, and Congress with independent, quality analysis, information, and support on matters of tariffs and international trade and competitiveness; and Maintain the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States. In so doing, the Commission serves the public by implementing U.S. law and contributing to the development and implementation of sound and informed U.S. trade policy. The USITC's five operations are: Import Injury Investigations Intellectual Property-Based Import Investigations Research Program Trade Information Services Trade Policy Support Commissioners The president nominates and the U.S. Senate confirms the six commissioners who make up the USITC. The president and the secretary of state sign the formal commission. Commissioners' terms are nine years, or, when filling a vacated seat, for the remainder of a term. Their terms are staggered to end 18 months apart. Commissioners may not be reappointed at the start of a new term unless they have served less than five years, although commissioners stay on past the end of their term until their successor is appointed and confirmed. No more than three of the commissioners may be of the same political party. The chairman and vice chairman's terms are for two years, and successive chairmen may