Push For Revised Patent Rules Gains Momentum

A Republican congressman has introduced legislation that would make it more difficult for non-practicing entities to litigate infringement lawsuits, at the same time raising the bar for obtaining business method patents. The Congressman, Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.), chairs the House Judiciary Committee, which could make it more likely his proposal will make some headway. Meanwhile, acting USPTO director Teresa Stanek Rea has called for a policy change in line with the second of Goodlatte’s proposals. She wants to see an expansion of the PTO’s “covered business method” program.