Income Taxes

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Income Taxes [Abstract]

Income Taxes

11. INCOME TAXES

The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2012 was 26.3% versus 31.2% for the three months ended April 2, 2011. The change in the effective rates was primarily driven by the worldwide distribution of income and the reduction of a non-U.S. tax item of $1.4 million.

As of both March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company had approximately $7.1 million of unrecognized tax benefits, all of which would affect its effective tax rate if recognized. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.

The Company or one of its subsidiaries files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and various state and foreign jurisdictions. Federal tax returns from 2008 through 2011 and various state tax returns remain subject to income tax examinations by tax authorities.