Interpretation of Registration of Agents and Representative for Director of Enrollment and Discipline in Disciplinary Proceedings

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO or "Office") implements an interpretation of certain regulatory provisions. These provisions concern the composition and operations of the Committee on Discipline and representation of the Director in disciplinary cases. The interpretation is necessary in view of the recent creation of the Office of General Counsel at the USPTO. The Patent and Trademark Office Efficiency Act (PTOEA) reestablished the Patent and Trademark Office as the United States Patent and Trademark Office, a performance-based organization with responsibility for its own operations. Consequently, the Office has responsibility for many functions formerly provided by the Department of Commerce.