USPTO AI Assistant Speeds Trademark Classification

The USPTO has announced a new AI tool called "Class ACT" designed to significantly reduce the time required for trademark application pre-processing. This tool automates the assignment of international classes, design search codes, and pseudo marks, aiming to improve efficiency for examining attorneys and applicants.

USPTO Director Remarks on International IP Index

USPTO Director John A. Squires delivered remarks on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's International IP Index, highlighting the United States' continued top ranking and the importance of robust IP protection for innovation. The remarks emphasized the USPTO's efforts to strengthen the patent system and adapt to future needs.

USPTO, DOJ Reaffirm Importance of Patent Incentives

The USPTO and DOJ filed a statement of interest in a U.S. District Court case, reaffirming the importance of patent incentives for innovation and competition. The statement argues that limiting patentees' ability to seek injunctive relief for infringement undermines the incentive to innovate and the U.S. patent system.

USPTO Opens Mountain West Community Engagement Office in Utah

The USPTO has opened a new Mountain West Community Engagement Office in Salt Lake City, Utah, on February 20, 2026. Director John A. Squires delivered remarks at the opening, emphasizing the importance of intellectual property protection and innovation across the nation. The office aims to assist individuals and businesses in navigating intellectual property resources.

USPTO Selects Utah for New Community Engagement Office

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has announced the selection of the University of Utah as the location for a new community engagement office. This office will serve innovators in a region formerly covered by the Rocky Mountain Regional Outreach Office and aims to foster innovation and translate research into economic growth.

Minnesota Fatal Work Injuries Rise to 84 in 2024

Minnesota recorded 84 fatal work injuries in 2024, an increase from 70 in 2023 and the highest number since 2017. The state's fatal-injury rate rose to 2.9 per 100,000 workers, though it remains below the national average. The Department of Labor and Industry urges worksites to focus on safety.

Minnesota DLI Awards $3M Grants for Teacher Apprenticeships

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) has awarded $3 million in grants to three registered teacher apprenticeship programs. These grants aim to expand the programs, enabling participants to earn a teaching license and bachelor's degree at no cost, addressing teacher shortages in the state.

Minnesota Workplace Injury and Illness Rate Holds Steady

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry announced that the state's estimated workplace injury and illness rate for 2024 remained steady at an all-time low of 2.9 OSHA-recordable nonfatal cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers. This rate matches the 2023 figure and represents the lowest recorded since 1973.

Minnesota DLI Awards Construction Mental Health Grants

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) has awarded grants totaling $750,000 to two organizations to support mental health initiatives within the construction industry. The Associated General Contractors of Minnesota Foundation and Suicide Awareness Voices of Education will use the funds to develop outreach, resources, and worksite strategies.

Missouri DEQ Seeks Comments on Unilever Remedy and Regulatory Release

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is seeking public comments on a proposed final remedy for the Unilever HPC-USA facility. The proposal suggests no further corrective action is needed and seeks to release the facility from hazardous waste storage regulations.