14 DAY TRIAL // Even though it suggested that there was additional room for improvement, Microsoft applauded action taken by the Senate Judiciary Committee on the Patent Reform Act of 2009. The US Senate Judiciary members managed to reach an agreement at the start of April 2009 on U.S. patent legislation, and the markup will now move to the next stage in the Senate. The Patent Reform Act of 2009 is designed to address critical issues that will catalyze revisions to U.S. patent law. Through Horacio Gutierrez, corporate vice president and deputy general counsel, Microsoft thanked the Committee, mentioning especially Chairman Patrick Leahy, Senators Dianne Feinstein, Arlen Specter and Orrin Hatch for their work.
“Their focus on modernizing the patent system, promoting innovation and fueling American competitiveness has taken this legislation in a very positive direction. In particular, we appreciate the determination shown by the sponsors to push this legislation forward and commend the open process in the Committee, which allowed all stakeholders, from every sector, the opportunity to express their views fully,” Gutierrez stated.
Through Gutierrez, Microsoft revealed that the progress made in terms of the evolution of the U.S. patent law was welcomed, but that further efforts were necessary, especially as the legislation passed to the Senate. In the perspective of the Redmond company's deputy general counsel, the Patent Reform Act of 2009 represented a collaborative and non-partisan effort designed to bring the U.S. patent law to the next level. Gutierrez emphasized that such a move could not have been done except for the compromises agreed upon by the members of the Judiciary Committee.
“While this legislation may not address all the wishes of all the parties involved, including those of Microsoft, it is thanks to the leadership of Chairman Leahy and members of his committee that the bill, as reported, reflects real progress and makes a positive step toward a consensus solution that does not favor any particular industry to the detriment of others,” Gutierrez added. “Together with administrative and judicial reform efforts, this legislation – if enacted – will help modernize the patent system in important respects and represents a significant step forward in efforts to bring balance and predictability to the outcomes in patent litigation cases.”