The growth of the U.S. economy relies on the protection of new ideas and investment in the creativity of inventors. The Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) plays a crucial role in setting American innovation policy. Every year, the USPTO reviews hundreds of thousands of applications for inventors, engineers, and others who seek intellectual property (IP) protection for their innovations.
On January 22, Governance Studies at Brookings hosted Michelle K. Lee, the Deputy Director of USPTO President Obama recently nominated to lead the office. Lee discussed efforts underway at the USPTO to continue building up an IP system that encourages and promotes innovation. Over the last few years, the USPTO has implemented a number of initiatives to improve the existing system like the America Invents Act, post grant proceedings, and the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. Deputy Director Lee highlighted several policies as priorities for the office.
Image: http://www.brookings.edu
