WTC Souvenirs At Center Of New Federal Lawsuit

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A new federal lawsuit focuses on souvenirs sold at One World Trade Center.

The World Trade Center Association claims it has the exclusive right to use the WTC trademark under a deal made in 1986 between the non-profit trade group and the Port Authority. The association paid only $10 for the privilege, WCBS 880's Sophia Hall reported.

The association is now suing in federal court because they claim the Port Authority is violating that right by selling teddy bears, mugs and other souvenirs stamped with "One World Observatory One World Trade Center" at the new observatory, Hall reported.

The association said they are requesting that a portion of the proceeds from the merchandise go to the Sept. 11 Memorial Foundation.

The Port Authority had no comment on the lawsuit.

The association said the main concern is protecting the quality of the World Trade Center brand and ensuring it is used appropriately.