The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is inviting Tribal Nations and related communities to comment on a new treaty adopted by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) regarding Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources, and Traditional Knowledge (GR and ATK). The USPTO is holding virtual webinars and requesting written feedback on whether the U.S. should sign this treaty, which could affect patent rules by requiring disclosure of GR and ATK sources. The sessions aim to gather input on how the treaty aligns with U.S. laws and its potential impacts on innovation. Written comments are due by April 28, 2025.
Simple Explanation
The U.S. wants to decide if it should agree to new international rules that talk about how we use special knowledge and natural goodies shared by Native Tribes. They're asking these Tribes to join online chats and write letters about what they think before making a decision.