Patently-O Bits and Bytes No. 5

• Majority Leader Harry Reid Plans to Move Quickly on Patent Reform: In the first work period of the Senate, Reid intends to move on patent reform (after handling the defense appropriations bill and economic stimulus). “Once we work these issues out, time permitting, we will also turn to two other priorities in this first work period: patent reform and an energy package.”  Perhaps appropriately, Reid’s concept of invention is tied-up with entrepreneurs: “On patent reform, we must carefully strike the right balance with a bill that promotes rather than blocks innovation from enterprising entrepreneurs.”  In Reid’s view, the bills should have become law in 2007: “If not for the obstruction of just a few Senators, we would have passed these bills last year. I am hopeful that the overwhelming majority of Senators – Democrats and Republicans alike – will have their voices heard this year.” [Zura]
• Comments for Japanese Patent Office: The JPO recently established a Policy Committee and have a schedule to recommend JPO policy changes in a report in April/May 2008. The Committee has generated broad goals of (1) a global system; (2) a predictable system; and (3) a system that promotes both creation and utilization. Comments on the goals and potential solutions are requested by Feb 25 (Japan time). [More Info] [Committee Broad Goals and Plan]
• Patent Bar Exam: Patent Agent Alex Nix has created an excellent wiki to help those studying for the Patent Registration Exam: www.PatentBarQuestions.com. Learn and Contribute!