As John Squires approaches Senate confirmation as the next Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, a key initiative he could implement is the reinstatement of the after-final consideration program, akin to AFCP 2.0, which was previously beneficial for small and medium-sized entities. Understanding the factors that led to the decline of participation by examiners in the original program is vital. Analyzing previous incentives and costs could help shape a more effective program moving forward, possibly allowing patent applicants to save on costs associated with obtaining patents nearing approval.
"If administered correctly, another after-final program could provide tremendous benefit again, particularly to small and medium-sized entities."
"Many practitioners used the AFCP 2.0 program, and with great success. But toward the end of the program's life, examiners were increasingly unwilling to participate."
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