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A bill to amend title 35, United States Code, to provide a good faith exception to the imposition of fines for false assertions and certifications, and for other purposes.

1/14/2025, 5:15 PM

Summary of Bill S 3960

Bill 118 s 3960, also known as the "Good Faith Exception Act," aims to amend title 35 of the United States Code in order to provide a good faith exception to the imposition of fines for false assertions and certifications. The bill seeks to address situations where individuals or entities unintentionally make false statements or certifications, and to prevent them from being penalized with fines.

The main purpose of this bill is to protect individuals and businesses who may have made false assertions or certifications due to genuine mistakes or misunderstandings, rather than with the intent to deceive or defraud. By providing a good faith exception, the bill aims to promote fairness and prevent undue financial burdens on those who may have acted in good faith.

In addition to the good faith exception, the bill may also include provisions for other purposes related to false assertions and certifications within title 35 of the United States Code. These additional provisions could potentially address issues such as enforcement mechanisms, reporting requirements, or other related matters. Overall, Bill 118 s 3960 seeks to strike a balance between holding individuals and entities accountable for false statements while also recognizing and protecting those who may have acted in good faith. The bill aims to promote integrity and fairness in the enforcement of laws related to false assertions and certifications within title 35 of the United States Code.

Congressional Summary of S 3960

This bill creates a good faith exception to certain fines imposed by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Currently, the USPTO may reduce patent-related fees for small and micro entities, and an entity that falsely claims a fee reduction shall be subject to a fine. This bill exempts an entity from such a fine if the entity made a good faith assertion or certification that the entity was entitled to a fee reduction.

Current Status of Bill S 3960

Bill S 3960 is currently in the status of Became Public Law since December 17, 2024. Bill S 3960 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on March 14, 2024.  Bill S 3960's most recent activity was Became Public Law No: 118-151. as of December 17, 2024

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 3960

Total Number of Sponsors
8
Democrat Sponsors
8
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
3
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
3
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 3960

Primary Policy Focus

Commerce

Potential Impact Areas

- Civil actions and liability
- Fraud offenses and financial crimes
- Licensing and registrations

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 3960

A bill to amend title 35, United States Code, to provide a good faith exception to the imposition of fines for false assertions and certifications, and for other purposes.
A bill to amend title 35, United States Code, to provide a good faith exception to the imposition of fines for false assertions and certifications, and for other purposes.

Comments

Royce Benson profile image

Royce Benson

599

1 year ago

this bill is so bad, why do they want to do this? who does it even help?

Jake Berg profile image

Jake Berg

701

1 year ago

I'm so excited about this new bill! It's gonna make sure people aren't getting fined for making mistakes in good faith. This bill is gonna help protect folks who are trying their best to follow the rules. I think it's gonna make a big difference in how things work around here. I can't wait to see how this bill helps out in the long run!