Patrick Leahy: “6 months ago, the Senate approved the America Invents Act to make the first meaningful, comprehensive reforms to the…”

“6 months ago, the Senate approved the America Invents Act to make the first meaningful, comprehensive reforms to the Nation's patent system in nearly 60 years. Today, the Senate has come together once again, this time to send this important, job- creating legislation to the President to be signed into law. Casting aside partisan rhetoric, and working together in a bipartisan and bicameral manner, Congress is sending to President Obama the most significant jobs bill of this Congress. The bill originated 6 years ago in the House of Representatives, when Chairman Smith and Mr. Berman introduced the first patent reform proposals. After dozens of congressional hearings, markup sessions, and briefings, and countless hours of Member and staff meetings, through two Presidential administrations, and three Congresses, patent reform is finally a reality. The Leahy-Smith America Invents Act is a bipartisan bill and a bipartisan accomplishment. This is what we in Washington can do for our constituents at home when we come together for the benefit of the country, the economy, and all Americans. I especially thank Senator Kyl for his work in bringing this bill to the floor of the Senate--twice--and Senator Grassley for his commitment to making patent reform the Judiciary Committee's top priority this year. Chairman Smith, in the other body, deserves credit for leading the House's consideration of this important bill.…”