It appears that the long battle to pass patent reform legislation–spanning nearly 10 years and five Congressional cycles–is nearing its end. The Senate passed its version of patent reform, S.23 the “America Invents Act,” in March by a wide margin of 95-5 and the House is expected to bring its version, H.R.1249 to the House floor in June. The Obama administration recently published a views letter supporting the House bill. Many independent inventors have voiced support for the legislation. A recent petition signed by more than 100 independent inventors who supported the legislation noted that the provisions would simplify the process for acquiring and defending rights and make them more competitive in the global marketplace. Among other critical provisions, the enactment of the bill would ensure that the USPTO can access all of the fees it collects while serving the needs of the inventor community and promote economic growth and job creation. This measure has been the major focus of Director David Kappos’ two-year tenure.

The next issue of Inventors Eye will provide further updates.