Innovation Alliance Urges President to Sign Legislation to Alleviate PTO Funding Crisis

WASHINGTON, DC – The Innovation Alliance, a coalition of mostly small and medium-sized technology companies seeking to enhance America’s innovation environment by improving the quality of patents and protecting the integrity of the U.S. patent system, expressed its gratitude to both houses of Congress for taking action to pass legislation to help alleviate the funding crisis at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (PTO).

Yesterday, by unanimous consent, the Senate approved H.R. 3114, which allows PTO funds designated for its trademark portfolio to be used to address its growing backlog of patent applications.

Despite the significant backlog in patent applications, PTO is under a hiring freeze, has suspended overtime pay for patent examiners, and is facing potential employee furloughs due to lack of funds.

The bill now goes to President Obama for his signature.