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“The legal standard that has been applied in patent cases awards patents to the person who invented a concept first, and it has long been a unique feature of the U.S. patent system. This year, however, Congress is about to consider a controversial proposal from Rep. Lamar Smith, a Texas Republican, that would grant a patent to the first person to submit the paperwork –a standard that’s common outside the United States.

“The legislation suddenly has become a flash point about everything that’s right with the U.S. patent system–and everything that’s wrong with it.”

Declan McCullagh. Patent Bill Would Make Sweeping Changes. News.com. Sept. 13, 2005.

See also:

Michael Kanellos. Patent System’s Problems Defy Easy Solutions. News.com. Aug. 4, 2005.

Michael Kanellos. Companies Trying to Cash in Via Licenses, Lawsuits. News.com. July 20, 2005.