The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is starting a new COVID-19 prioritized examination program for certain trademark and service mark applications. USPTO will accept petitions to advance the initial examination of applications for marks used to identify qualifying COVID-19 medical products and services.
In order to qualify for the new program, an applicant must first file the trademark application and then file a petition to the Director. The petition must include the application serial number through the Trademark Electronic Application System (“TEAS”).
There are certain requirements for the petitions. They must include a statement of facts with a supporting declaration and the application must cover a product that is subject to U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for use in the prevention and/or treatment of COVID-19 or a medical or medical research service for the prevention and/or treatment of COVID-19. The USPTO will waive the fee for such petitions.
Qualifying goods and services include:
– pharmaceutical products or medical devices such as diagnostic tests, ventilators, and personal protective equipment, including surgical masks, face shields, gowns, and gloves, that prevent, diagnose, treat or cure COVID-19 and are subject to approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration”; and
– medical services or medical research for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment of, or cure for COVID-19.
More information HERE.
