On Wednesday, H.R. 5796, the Patents for Humanity Act of 2021, led by U.S. Representatives Victoria Spartz (R-Ind.) and Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), passed the U.S. House of Representatives.
If enacted, the bill, introduced in November 2021, would help creators fast-track innovations to the benefit of the global community by streamlining the patent process and cutting existing bureaucratic red tape at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
“Speed and agility in developing innovative inventions and solutions to the challenges of the 21st century is much needed and welcomed,” Rep. Spartz said. “Any innovation that benefits society, especially on a large scale – such as a patented item, should be encouraged and not stifled by burdensome government regulation. I thank my colleague from New York for his collaboration and partnership on this important bill.”
On Dec. 8, 2021, Rep. Spartz offered remarks on her bill, which you can watch at this link. On the same day, the bill passed the House Judiciary Committee, clearing it for Thursday’s floor vote.
H.R. 5796 will now be sent to the Senate for consideration and passage.