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Strengthening Patent Protection: Restoring Inventors' Rights

This act aims to strengthen the rights of inventors and patent holders in the United States. It introduces changes that will make it easier to obtain and defend patents, especially for new scientific discoveries and software. Citizens who invent something will have greater assurance that their ideas are protected.
Key points
Reverting to a "first-to-invent" system instead of "first-to-file," meaning the patent goes to the person who genuinely conceived and developed the invention first.
Abolishing procedures that made it easier to invalidate patents after they were granted, increasing the stability of patent rights.
Recognizing patents as private property rights that can only be invalidated by a court, not by administrative offices.
Ensuring full funding for the United States Patent and Trademark Office to improve its operations.
Facilitating the patenting of scientific discoveries and software, which may foster innovation in these fields.
Ending automatic publication of patent applications, giving inventors more time to develop and protect their ideas before disclosure.
Strengthening the presumption of patent validity in legal disputes, making it harder to challenge.
Making it easier to obtain a court injunction against further patent infringement, enhancing the protection of patent owners' rights.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_5874
Sponsor: Rep. Massie, Thomas [R-KY-4]
Process start date: 2021-11-04
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Restoring America’s Leadership in Innovation Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_5874.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-11-04.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Reverting to a "first-to-invent" system instead of "first-to-file," meaning the patent goes to the person who genuinely conceived and developed the invention first.
  • Abolishing procedures that made it easier to invalidate patents after they were granted, increasing the stability of patent rights.
  • Recognizing patents as private property rights that can only be invalidated by a court, not by administrative offices.
  • Ensuring full funding for the United States Patent and Trademark Office to improve its operations.
  • Facilitating the patenting of scientific discoveries and software, which may foster innovation in these fields.
  • Ending automatic publication of patent applications, giving inventors more time to develop and protect their ideas before disclosure.
  • Strengthening the presumption of patent validity in legal disputes, making it harder to challenge.
  • Making it easier to obtain a court injunction against further patent infringement, enhancing the protection of patent owners' rights.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Massie, Thomas [R-KY-4].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-28.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Economy