Statement Regarding the USPTO Proposed IPR Rule Amendments

Washington, D.C. (August 20, 2015) – The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) today issued the following statement regarding the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s (PTO) proposed changes to the rules governing the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) inter partes review (IPR) proceedings:

"BIO appreciates the PTO’s efforts to improve IPR proceedings. While we continue to review the details of the proposed rules package, it is clear that these moderate improvements do not adequately address the fundamental problems with the IPR system, as have been expressed by the diverse array of industries reliant upon the strength and dependability of America’s patent system.

“The proposed changes also would do little to prevent the continuing and growing abuse of IPR proceedings, and only reinforce the need for Congressional action to fix this system.

“BIO will continue to engage in a constructive dialogue with the PTO, Congress and other stakeholders to further strengthen  the patent system, including the enactment of legislative reforms needed to ensure the continued ability of the biotechnology industry to bring to market the next generation of innovations in healthcare, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy.” 

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