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Protecting US Patents from Foreign Court Interference

This act aims to strengthen the protection of American patents. It introduces rules that make it harder for foreign courts to block patent infringement cases in the US. This will give US companies and inventors greater assurance that their patent rights will be effectively enforced, potentially encouraging further innovation and technological development.
Key points
Defines "anti-suit injunctions" issued by foreign tribunals that attempt to restrict the right to file or maintain US patent infringement claims.
If a foreign anti-suit injunction is used to block a US patent infringement case, the US court may presume the infringement was willful, leading to higher damages and attorney fees.
The US Patent and Trademark Office will decline to review a patent if the petitioner used a foreign anti-suit injunction to restrict a patent infringement claim.
The act mandates a study on the importance of patents to US technological leadership and the harms caused by foreign anti-suit injunctions.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_3772
Sponsor: Sen. Tillis, Thomas [R-NC]
Process start date: 2022-03-08
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Defending American Courts Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_3772.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2022-03-08.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Defines "anti-suit injunctions" issued by foreign tribunals that attempt to restrict the right to file or maintain US patent infringement claims.
  • If a foreign anti-suit injunction is used to block a US patent infringement case, the US court may presume the infringement was willful, leading to higher damages and attorney fees.
  • The US Patent and Trademark Office will decline to review a patent if the petitioner used a foreign anti-suit injunction to restrict a patent infringement claim.
  • The act mandates a study on the importance of patents to US technological leadership and the harms caused by foreign anti-suit injunctions.
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 Sen. Tillis, Thomas [R-NC].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Economy