USPTO Proposing Search Fee Refunds for Expressly Abandoned Applications

On June 21, 2005, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office issued a notice of proposed rulemaking on "Changes To Implement the Patent Search Fee Refund Provisions of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005." In particular, the Office is proposing to revise the rules of practice to implement the provisions for a refund of the search fee for any applicant who files a written declaration of express abandonment as prescribed by the Office before an examination has been made of the application under 35 U.S.C. 131.

To be ensured of consideration, written comments must be received on or before August 22, 2005. No public hearing will be held.