Change Requests

What is an ICR?

An Information Collection Request (ICR) is a federal agency's request for approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to collect information from the public. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), agencies must justify why the information is needed and how it will be used.

When are they submitted?

Federal agencies are required to submit an ICR whenever they create, renew, modify an information collection. Each ICR includes a description of the collection, supporting materials and documentation (such as forms, surveys, or scripts), and proof that the agency has met the requirements of the PRA.

The ICR is submitted to the The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) within OMB for review and approval. OIRA grants approval for a maximum of three years, after which the collection must be renewed through a new ICR submission.

Where to find an ICR?

ICRs are publicly available on RegInfo.gov, and additional guidance can be found in the FAQs.

Note: Presidential Action influences are notated for ICRs received between January 20, 2025 and July 19, 2025.

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Title
Reference Number
OMB Control Number
Agency
Received
Concluded
Action
Status
Request Type
Presidential Action

Title:

Patent Processing

Reference Number:

202411-0651-011

Omb Control Number:

0651-0031

Agency:

DOC/PTO

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2024-11-25

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
Patent Processing

Key Information

Abstract

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required by 35 U.S.C. § 131 to examine an application for patent and, when appropriate, issue a patent. Also, the USPTO is required to publish patent applications, with certain exceptions, promptly after the expiration of a period of 18 months from the earliest filing date for which a benefit is sought under Title 35, United States Code ("eighteen-month publication"). Certain situations may arise which require that additional information be supplied in order for the USPTO to further process the patent or application. The USPTO administers the statutes through various sections of the rules of practice in 37 CFR Part 1. During the processing of an application for a patent, the applicant or applicant’s representative may be required to submit additional information to the USPTO concerning the examination of a specific application. The specific information required to be submitted includes: requests for extension of time, abandonment of applications and the revival of abandoned applications, disclaimers, appeals, petitions, expedited examination of design applications, requests for continued examinations, request to inspect, copy, and access patent applications, and transmittal forms. The information in this collection can be used by the USPTO to continue the processing of the patent or application to ensure that applicants are complying with the patent regulations and to aid in the prosecution of the application.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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30-Day FRN
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Authorizing Statutes

Pub.L. 112 - 29 1
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Admission to Practice and Roster of Registered Patent Attorneys and Agents Admitted to Practice Before the United States Patent and Trademark Office

Reference Number:

202411-0651-007

Omb Control Number:

0651-0012

Agency:

DOC/PTO

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2024-11-25

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
Admission to Practice and Roster of Registered Patent Attorneys and Agents Admitted to Practice Before the United States Patent and Trademark Office

Key Information

Abstract

This collection of information is required by 35 U.S.C. 2(b)(2)(D), which permits the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to establish regulations governing the recognition and conduct of agents, attorneys, or other persons representing applicants or other parties before the USPTO. This statute also permits the USPTO to require information from applicants that shows that they are of good moral character and reputation and have the necessary qualifications to assist applicants with the patent process and to represent them before the USPTO. This information collection addresses submissions required by the regulations at 37 CFR 1.21, 10.14, and 11.5-11.11, which set forth the requirements to apply for the examination for registration and to demonstrate eligibility to be a registered attorney or agent before the USPTO, including the fee requirements. The Office of Enrollment and Discipline (OED) collects this information to determine the qualifications of individuals entitled to represent applicants before the USPTO in the preparation and prosecution of applications for a patent. The OED also collects this information to administer and maintain the public roster of attorneys and agents registered to practice before the USPTO, which is accessible through the USPTO website. The information in this information collection is used by the USPTO to review applications for the examination for registration and to determine whether an applicant may be added to, or an existing practitioner may remain on, the Register of Patent Attorneys and Agents.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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30-Day FRN
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Authorizing Statutes

35 USC 2(b)(2)(D)
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Requirements for Patent Applications Containing Nucleotide Sequence and/or Amino Acid Sequence Disclosures

Reference Number:

202411-0651-005

Omb Control Number:

0651-0024

Agency:

DOC/PTO

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2024-11-25

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
Requirements for Patent Applications Containing Nucleotide Sequence and/or Amino Acid Sequence Disclosures

Key Information

Abstract

Patent applications that contain nucleotide and/or amino acid sequence disclosures must include a copy of the sequence listing in accordance with the requirements in 37 CFR 1.821-1.825. Applicants submit copies of sequence listings for both U.S. and international biotechnology patent applications. The USPTO uses the sequence listings during the examination process to determine the patentability of the associated patent application. The USPTO also uses the sequence listings to support publication of patent applications and issued patents. Sequence listings are searchable after publication. This information collection covers the submission of the sequence listing information itself. Information pertaining to the filing of the initial U.S. patent application is collected under OMB Control Number 0651-0032, and information pertaining to the filing of the initial international application is collected under OMB Control Number 0651-0021. In particular, this information collection accounts for sequence listings submitted on paper, compact disc (CD), or through EFS-Web, the USPTO’s online filing system. Sequence listings may be submitted via EFS-Web as an ASCII text file or in Portable Document Format (PDF). For U.S. applications, § 1.821(c) permits all modes of submission: paper, CD, or EFS-Web. Sequence listings for international applications may be submitted on paper or through EFS-Web only, though sequence listings that are too large to be filed electronically though EFS-Web may be submitted on CD. This information collection also accounts for the requirement under § 1.821(e) that a copy of the sequence listing required by § 1.821(c) be submitted in computer readable form (CRF) in accordance with the requirements of § 1.824. Under §§ 1.821(e)–(f), applicants who submit their sequence listings on paper, CD, or as a PDF via EFS-Web must submit a copy of the sequence listing in CRF with a statement indicating that the CRF copy of the sequence listing is identical to the paper, CD, or PDF copy provided under § 1.821(c). Applicants may submit the CRF copy of the sequence listing to the USPTO on CD or other acceptable media as provided in § 1.824. If a new application is filed via EFS-Web with an ASCII text file sequence listing that complies with the requirements of §§ 1.824(a)(2)–(6) and (b), and applicant has not filed a sequence listing on paper, CD or as a PDF file, the text file will serve as both the copy required by § 1.821(c) and the CRF required by § 1.821(e). Moreover, the associated statement of identity would not be required. This information collection also covers the mechanism in § 1.821(e) where an applicant may request, in limited circumstances, a transfer of the CRF from the application already on file to the new application, if the CRF sequence listing in a new application is identical to the CRF sequence listing of another application that the applicant already has on file at the USPTO. In such a case, the applicant may submit a letter identifying the application and CRF sequence listing that is already on file and stating that the sequence listing submitted in the new application is identical to the CRF copy already filed with the previous application. The USPTO provides a form, Request for Transfer of a Computer Readable Form Under 37 CFR 1.821(e) (PTO/SB/93), in order to assist customers in submitting this statement.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
View Notice
30-Day FRN
View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

35 USC 22
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Rules for Patent Maintenance Fees

Reference Number:

202411-0651-004

Omb Control Number:

0651-0016

Agency:

DOC/PTO

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2024-11-25

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
Rules for Patent Maintenance Fees

Key Information

Abstract

Under 35 U.S.C. § 41 and 37 CFR 1.20(e)-(h), 1.362, 1.366, 1.377, and 1.378, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) charges fees for maintaining in force all utility patents based on applications filed on or after December 12, 1980. Payment of these maintenance fees is due at 3-1/2, 7-1/2, and 11-1/2 years after the date the patent was granted. If the USPTO does not receive payment of the appropriate maintenance fee and any applicable surcharge within a grace period of 6 months following each of the above due dates (at 4, 8, or 12 years after the date of grant), the patent will expire at that time. After a patent expires, it is no longer enforceable. Maintenance fees are not required for design or plant patents or for reissue patents if the patent being reissued did not require maintenance fees. The USPTO must maintain accurate payment records in order to provide the public with information as to which patents have expired and which patents remain in force.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
View Notice
30-Day FRN
View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

Pub.L. 112 - 29 8
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Patent Reexaminations, Supplemental Examinations, and Post Patent Submissions

Reference Number:

202411-0651-009

Omb Control Number:

0651-0064

Agency:

DOC/PTO

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2024-11-25

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
Patent Reexaminations, Supplemental Examinations, and Post Patent Submissions

Key Information

Abstract

The USPTO is required by 35 U.S.C. 131 and 151 to examine applications and, when appropriate, allow applications and issue them as patents. Chapter 30 of Title 35 U.S.C. provides that any person at any time may file a request for reexamination by the USPTO of any claim of a patent on the basis of prior art cited under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 301. Once initiated, the reexamination proceedings under Chapter 30 are substantially ex parte and do not permit input from third parties. The regulations outlining ex parte reexaminations are found at 37 CFR 1.510-1.570. In addition, 35 U.S.C. 257 permits a patent owner to request supplemental examination of a patent by the USPTO to consider, reconsider, or correct information believed to be relevant to the patent. The regulations outlining supplemental examination are found at 37 CFR 1.601-1.625. The Leahy-Smith America Invents Act terminated inter partes reexamination effective September 16, 2012. However, inter partes reexamination proceedings based on inter partes reexamination requests filed before September 16, 2012, continue to be prosecuted. Therefore, this information collection continues to include items related to the prosecution of inter partes reexamination proceedings. The regulations outlining inter partes reexamination are found at 37 CFR 1.903-1.959. The provisions of 35 U.S.C. 301 and 37 CFR 1.501 govern the ability of a person to submit into the file of an issued patent (1) prior art consisting of patents or printed publications which the person making the submission believes to have a bearing on the patentability of any claim of the issued patent and (2) statements of the owner of the issued patent filed in a proceeding before a Federal court or the USPTO in which the owner of the issued patent took a position on the scope of any claim of the issued patent. This information collection covers information contained in: (1) requests for ex parte reexamination, (2) requests for supplemental examination, (3) submissions made by patent owners and third-party requesters related to the prosecution of an ex parte or inter partes reexamination proceeding, (4) information submitted by the public to aid in ascertaining the patentability and/or scope of the claims of the issued patent, and (5) information submitted by patent owners regarding a position taken before the USPTO or a Federal court regarding the scope of any claim in their issued patent. The USPTO’s use of the statements of the patent owners ((5) above) will be limited to determining the meaning of a patent claim in ex parte reexamination proceedings that already have been ordered and in inter partes review and post grant review proceedings that already have been instituted. The purpose of this information collection is to facilitate requests for ex parte reexamination and supplemental examination, to facilitate prosecution of reexamination and reissue proceedings, and to ensure that the associated documentation is submitted to the USPTO, and to permit relevant post-patent prior art and claim scope information to be entered into a patent file.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
View Notice
30-Day FRN
View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

Pub.L. 112 - 29 12
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Post Allowance and Refiling

Reference Number:

202411-0651-001

Omb Control Number:

0651-0033

Agency:

DOC/PTO

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2024-11-25

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
Post Allowance and Refiling

Key Information

Abstract

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required by 35 U.S.C. 131 and 151 to examine applications and, when appropriate, allow applications and issue them as patents. When an application for a patent is allowed by the USPTO, the USPTO issues a notice of allowance and the applicant must pay the specified issue fee (including the publication fee, if applicable) within three months to avoid abandonment of the application. This collection of information also encompasses several actions that may be taken after issuance of a patent, pursuant to Chapter 25 of Title 35 U.S.C. A certificate of correction may be requested to correct an error or errors in the patent. For an original patent that is believed to be wholly or partly inoperative or invalid, the assignee(s) or inventor(s) may apply for reissue of the patent, which entails several formal requirements, including provision of an oath or declaration specifically identifying at least one error being relied upon as the basis for reissue and stating the reason for the belief that the original patent is wholly or partly inoperative or invalid (e.g., a defective specification or drawing, or claiming more or less than the patentee had the right to claim in the patent). The public uses this information collection to request corrections of errors in issued patents, to submit applications for reissue patents, and to submit issue fee payments.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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30-Day FRN
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Authorizing Statutes

35 USC 251-256
View Law
35 USC 151
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35 USC 41
View Law
35 USC 131
View Law
35 USC 115
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Initial Patent Applications

Reference Number:

202411-0651-010

Omb Control Number:

0651-0032

Agency:

DOC/PTO

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2024-11-25

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
Initial Patent Applications

Key Information

Abstract

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required by Title 35 of the United States Code, including 35 U.S.C. 131, to examine applications for patents. The USPTO administers the patent statutes relating to examination through various rules in Chapter 37 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), such as, for example, 37 CFR 1.16 through 1.84. Each patent applicant must provide sufficient information to allow the USPTO to properly examine the application to determine whether it meets the criteria set forth in the patent statutes and regulations for issuance as a patent. The patent statutes and regulations require that an application for patent include the following information: (1) A specification containing a description of the invention and at least one claim defining the property right sought by the applicant; (2) A drawing(s) or photograph(s), where necessary for an understanding of the invention; (3) An oath or declaration signed by the applicant (under 35 U.S.C. 115(f), the time for filing the oath or declaration is no later than the date on which the issue fee for the patent is paid); and (4) A filing fee. Various types of patent applications are covered under this information collection: • Noncontinuing, nonprovisional utility, plant and design applications, • Provisional applications, • Continuation/divisional applications of international applications, • Continued prosecution applications (design), and • Continuation/divisional and continuation-in-part applications of utility, plant, and design applications. In addition, this information collection covers certain other papers filed by applicants, such as, for example, petitions to accept an unintentionally delayed priority or benefit claim, petitions to accept a filing by other than all of the inventors or a person not the inventor, and petitions requesting that applications filed under 37 CFR 1.495(b) be accorded a receipt date. Furthermore, this information collection incorporates the lone item in 0651-0073 (Patent Law Treaty): petitions to restore the right of priority to a foreign application under 37 CFR 1.55(c) or the benefit of a prior-filed provisional application under 37 CFR 1.78(b). The petitions are used to extend the 12-month periods set forth in 35 U.S.C. 119(a) and (e) by an additional 2 months where there is an unintentional delay in filing an application claiming priority to a foreign application or the benefit of a provisional application. Once this information collection is renewed, and the petitions are added, 0651-0073 will be discontinued.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
View Notice
30-Day FRN
View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

Pub.L. 112 - 119 1
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Annual Representations and Certifications

Reference Number:

202411-3037-002

Omb Control Number:

3037-0013

Agency:

CPBSD

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2025-03-20

Action:

Approved with change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

Reinstatement with change of a previously approved collection
Annual Representations and Certifications

Key Information

Abstract

The data is integral to the Commission’s ability to ensure the integrity of the AbilityOne Program, which allows qualified NPAs employing people who are blind or have significant disabilities to collectively deliver $4 billion worth of products and services to the U.S. Government each year. The JWOD Act requires the Commission to monitor and validate several NPA performance outcomes. Additional data is needed to validate the effect and effectiveness of the AbilityOne Program in creating employment opportunities for people with disabilities and providing those individuals with the significant job supports and accommodations necessary for them to be successful.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
View Notice
30-Day FRN
View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

41 USC Chapter 85
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Guaranteed or Insured Loan Reporting Requirements

Reference Number:

202411-2900-004

Omb Control Number:

2900-0909

Agency:

VA

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2025-05-02

Action:

Comment filed on proposed rule and continue

Status:

Historical Inactive

Request Type:

Revision of a currently approved collection
Guaranteed or Insured Loan Reporting Requirements

Key Information

Abstract

This information collection package seeks OMB approval of information collection requirements currently found in VA regulations, but that do not appear to have previously been approved by OMB. VA statute requires lenders to report a guaranteed or insured loan to VA in such detail as the Secretary may prescribe. 38 U.S.C. 3702(c). In cases where the loan is guaranteed, the Secretary shall provide the lender with a loan guaranty certificate or other evidence of the guaranty. Regulations codified at 38 CFR 36.4303 detail the requirements of lenders to report loans to VA in order to obtain evidence of the guaranty.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

38 USC 3702(C)
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

OPRE Descriptive Study - Sexual Risk Avoidance Education Program Performance Analysis Study (SRAE PAS) [Descriptive Study - Performance Measures]

Reference Number:

202411-0970-007

Omb Control Number:

0970-0536

Agency:

HHS/ACF

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2024-12-23

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

Extension without change of a currently approved collection
OPRE Descriptive Study - Sexual Risk Avoidance Education Program Performance Analysis Study (SRAE PAS) [Descriptive Study - Performance Measures]

Key Information

Abstract

The goal of the SRAE PAS is to collect performance measures data from SRAE grant recipients and their program participants ages 10–20 on: the characteristics of youth involved in programming; youth sexual behavior, sexual behavior intentions, and behaviors relevant to the success sequence; the range of services youth receive; program structure, cost, and support for implementation; program attendance, reach, and dosage; how programs addressed the A–F topics; and youth outcomes at program exit. The performance measures have and will continue to allow both the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) program office and grant recipients to monitor and report on progress in implementing SRAE programs and informs technical assistance. ACF was planning to submit a request to update sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) items once additional guidance was available and measures for youth-serving programs had been tested (see “Previous Terms of Clearance” below). This work is still in progress so at this time ACF is requesting an additional extension without change to allow grant recipients to continue collecting and submitting data as they provide programming to additional cohorts of youth while work continues on SOGI items. ACF requests approval of the extension before the current approval expires in January 2025 so that grant recipients only have to update the expiration date once, as the process to update the expiration date more than once is confusing and costly.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
View Notice
30-Day FRN
View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

42 USC 710
View Law
42 USC 1310
View Law
Pub.L. 111 - 352 1115
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Research Experiences and Mentoring Supplement

Reference Number:

202411-3145-004

Omb Control Number:

3145-0261

Agency:

NSF

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2025-01-14

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

Revision of a currently approved collection
Research Experiences and Mentoring Supplement

Key Information

Abstract

The National Science Foundation (NSF) requests that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approve, under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, a one-time clearance to evaluate the Research Experiences and Mentoring (REM) supplement. The REM supplement is available to active NSF Emerging Frontiers in Research and Innovation (EFRI) research awards and active Engineering Research Center (ERC) awards.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
View Notice
30-Day FRN
View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

42 USC 1861
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Patent Review and Derivation Proceedings

Reference Number:

202411-0651-008

Omb Control Number:

0651-0069

Agency:

DOC/PTO

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2024-11-25

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
Patent Review and Derivation Proceedings

Key Information

Abstract

The Leahy-Smith America Invents Act, which was enacted into law on September 16, 2011, provided for many changes to the procedures of the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (“PTAB” or “Board,” formerly the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences) procedures. These changes included the introduction of inter partes review, post-grant review, derivation proceedings, and the transitional program for covered business method patents. Under these administrative trial proceedings, third parties may file a petition with the PTAB challenging the validity of issued patents, with each proceeding having different requirements regarding timing restrictions, grounds for challenging validity, and who may request review. Inter partes review is a trial proceeding conducted at the Board to review the patentability of one or more claims in a patent only on a ground that could be raised under §§ 102 or 103, and only on the basis of prior art consisting of patents or printed publications. Post grant review is a trial proceeding conducted at the Board to review the patentability of one or more claims in a patent on any ground that could be raised under § 282(b)(2) or (3). A derivation proceeding is a trial proceeding conducted at the Board to determine whether (1) an inventor named in an earlier application derived the claimed invention from an inventor named in the petitioner’s application, and (2) the earlier application claiming such invention was filed without authorization. The transitional program for covered business method patents is a trial proceeding conducted at the Board to review the patentability of one or more claims in a covered business method patent. The covered business method program expired on September 16, 2020 and the Board no longer accepts new petitions related to this program, but continues to accept papers in previously-instituted proceedings. This information collection covers information submitted by the public to petition the Board to initiate an inter partes review, post-grant review, derivation proceeding, and the transitional program for covered business method patents, as well as any responses to such petitions, and the filing of any motions, replies, oppositions, and other actions, after a review/proceeding has been instituted.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
View Notice
30-Day FRN
View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

35 USC 6
View Law
35 USC 134
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Representative and Address Provisions

Reference Number:

202410-0651-013

Omb Control Number:

0651-0035

Agency:

DOC/PTO

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2024-11-25

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
Representative and Address Provisions

Key Information

Abstract

This information collection includes the information necessary to submit a request to grant or revoke power of attorney for an application, patent, or reexamination proceeding, and for a registered practitioner to withdraw as attorney or agent of record. This also includes the information necessary to change the correspondence address for an application, patent, or reexamination proceeding, to request a Customer Number and manage the correspondence address and list of practitioners associated with a Customer Number, and to designate or change the correspondence address or fee address for one or more patents or applications by using a Customer Number. Under 35 U.S.C. 2 and 37 CFR 1.31-1.32, power of attorney may be granted to one or more joint inventors or a person who is registered to practice before the USPTO to act in an application or a patent. In particular, for an application filed before September 16, 2012, or for a patent which issued from an application filed before September 16, 2012, power of attorney may be granted by the applicant for patent (as set forth in 37 CFR 1.41(b) (pre-AIA)) or the assignee of the entire interest of the applicant. For an application filed on or after September 16, 2012, or for a patent which issued from an application filed on or after September 16, 2012, power of attorney may be granted by the applicant for patent (as set forth in 37 CFR 1.42) or the patent owner. The USPTO provides two different versions of the forms for establishing power of attorney based upon whether the application filing date is before or after September 16, 2012, to thereby reduce applicants' burden in having to determine the appropriate power of attorney requirements for a given application. The USPTO's Customer Number practice permits applicants, patent owners, assignees, and practitioners of record, or the representatives of record for a number of applications or patents, to change the correspondence address of a patent application or patent with one change request instead of filing separate requests for each patent or application. Start Printed Page 50087Any changes to the address or practitioner information associated with a Customer Number will be applied to all patents and applications associated with said Customer Number. The Customer Number practice is optional, in that changes of correspondence address or power of attorney may be filed separately for each patent or application without using a Customer Number. However, a Customer Number associated with the correspondence address for a patent application is required in order to access private information about the application using the Patent Application Information Retrieval (PAIR) system, which is available through the USPTO website. The use of a Customer Number is also required in order to grant power of attorney to more than ten practitioners or to establish a separate “fee address” for maintenance fee purposes that is different from the correspondence address for a patent or application. 37 CFR 1.36 provides for the revocation of a power of attorney at any stage in the proceedings of a case. 37 CFR 1.36 also provides a path by which a registered patent attorney or patent agent who has been given a power of attorney may withdraw as attorney or agent of record.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
View Notice
30-Day FRN
View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

Pub.L. 112 - 29 1
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Patent Cooperation Treaty

Reference Number:

202410-0651-019

Omb Control Number:

0651-0021

Agency:

DOC/PTO

Received:

2024-11-20

Concluded:

2024-11-25

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
Patent Cooperation Treaty

Key Information

Abstract

This collection of information is required by the provisions of the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), which became operational in June 1978 and is administered by the International Bureau (IB) of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva, Switzerland. The provisions of the PCT have been implemented by the United States in Part IV of Title 35 of the U.S. Code (Chapters 35-37) and Subpart C of Title 37 of the Code of Federal Regulations (37 CFR 1.401-1.499). The purpose of the PCT is to provide a standardized filing format and procedure that allows an applicant to seek protection for an invention in several countries by filing one international application in one location, in one language, and paying one initial set of fees. The information in this collection is used by the public to submit a patent application under the PCT and by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to fulfill its obligation to process, search, and examine the application as directed by the treaty. The filing, search, written opinion, and publication procedures are provided for in Chapter I of the PCT. Additional procedures for a preliminary examination of PCT international applications are provided for in optional PCT Chapter II. Under Chapter I, an applicant can file an international application in the national or home office (Receiving Office (RO)) or the IB. The USPTO acts as the United States Receiving Office (RO/US) for international applications filed by residents and nationals of the United States. These applicants send most of their correspondence directly to the USPTO, but they may also file certain documents directly with the IB. The USPTO serves as an International Searching Authority (ISA) to perform searches and issues an international search report (ISR) and a written opinion on international applications. The USPTO also issues an international preliminary report on patentability (IPRP Chapter II) when acting as an International Preliminary Examining Authority (IPEA). The RO reviews the application and, if it contains all of the necessary information, assigns a filing date to the application. The RO maintains the home copy of the international application and forwards the record copy of the application to the IB and the search copy to the ISA. The IB maintains the record copy of all international applications and publishes them 18 months after the earliest priority date, which is the earliest date for which a benefit is claimed. The ISA performs a search to determine whether there is any prior art relevant to the claims of the international application and will issue an international search report and written opinion as to whether each claim is novel, involves an inventive step, and is industrially applicable. The ISA then forwards the international search report and written opinion to the applicant and the IB. The IB will normally publish the application and search report 18 months after the priority date, unless early publication is requested by the applicant. Until international publication, no third person or national or regional office is allowed access to the international patent application unless so requested or authorized by the applicant. If the applicant wishes to withdraw the application (and does so before international publication), international publication does not take place. Under Chapter II of the Treaty, an applicant who has filed an international application in an RO can demand an international preliminary examination of the application by an IPEA, such as the USPTO. The Demand is made separately from the international application and contains prescribed particulars, language, and form. The International preliminary examination is a second evaluation of the potential patentability of the claimed invention, using the same standards on which the written opinion of the ISA was based. A copy of the examination report is sent to the applicant and to the IB.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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30-Day FRN
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Authorizing Statutes

Pub.L. 94 - 131 351
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Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Construction Progress Reporting Surveys

Reference Number:

202411-0607-004

Omb Control Number:

0607-0153

Agency:

DOC/CENSUS

Received:

2024-11-19

Concluded:

None

Action:

None

Status:

Received in OIRA

Request Type:

Extension without change of a currently approved collection
Construction Progress Reporting Surveys

Key Information

Abstract

The information collected on these forms is used to publish estimates of the monthly value of construction put in place (1) for nonresidential projects owned by private companies or individuals; (2) for projects owned by state and local government agencies; (3) for multifamily residential building projects owned by private companies or individuals; and (4) for projects owned by the federal government. These statistics are used extensively by the Federal Government in making policy decisions and become part of the gross domestic product. The private sector uses the statistics for market analysis and other research.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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30-Day FRN
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Authorizing Statutes

13 USC 131 and 182
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Presidential Action:

-

Title:

TANF Work Outcomes Measures

Reference Number:

202411-0970-006

Omb Control Number:

0970-0639

Agency:

HHS/ACF

Received:

2024-11-19

Concluded:

2025-01-07

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

New collection (Request for a new OMB Control Number)
TANF Work Outcomes Measures

Key Information

Abstract

This is a proposed new collection in response to the requirements of section 304 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 (FRA) (Title I, Section 304 Section 110(j) of Public Law 118-5), which requires states and territories to report data necessary to produce work outcome measures for work-eligible individuals who leave TANF. This collection was established in the interim final rule Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Work Outcomes Measures (89 FR 53870), effective October 1, 2024.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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30-Day FRN
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Authorizing Statutes

Pub.L. 118 - 5 304
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Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Decabromodiphenyl Ether and Phenol, Isopropylated Phosphate (3:1); Revision to the Regulation of PBT Chemicals under TSCA (Final Rule)

Reference Number:

202411-2070-001

Omb Control Number:

2070-0230

Agency:

EPA/OCSPP

Received:

2024-11-19

Concluded:

2024-12-20

Action:

Approved with change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

New collection (Request for a new OMB Control Number)
Decabromodiphenyl Ether and Phenol, Isopropylated Phosphate (3:1); Revision to the Regulation of PBT Chemicals under TSCA (Final Rule)

Key Information

Abstract

This ICR addresses revisions from EPAs final rules for decaBDE and PIP (3:1) as part of the Reconsideration of the Persistent, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic (PBT) Chemicals rule under TSCA section 6(h). This rulemaking is revising the 2021 final rule for decaBDE by requiring the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during domestic manufacturing and processing; requiring a label on plastic shipping pallets that are known to contain decaBDE; prohibiting releases to water from manufacturing, processing, and distribution in commerce of decaBDE; extending the compliance date for the phase-out of processing and distribution in commerce of decaBDE-containing wire and cable insulation for nuclear power generation facilities; and adding an export notification requirement for decaBDE-containing wire and cable for nuclear power generation facilities. This rulemaking is revising the 2021 final rule for PIP (3:1) by requiring a closed-loop system for the use of PIP (3:1) in the manufacture of cyanoacrylate adhesives; requiring PPE during manufacturing and processing for most remaining uses and for inhalation and dermal exposures; excluding the processing and distribution of PIP (3:1) for use in wire harnessing and electric conduit boards; establishing a 5-year time limit to the exclusion for non-turbine and non-aviation uses for lubricants and greases; establishing a 5-year time-limit for processing and distribution in commerce of PIP (3:1) in a marine antifouling coating for use on Navy ships; repealing the existing exclusions for motor vehicles and aerospace vehicles and replacing them with prohibition phase-ins; and establishing a 10-year time limit on PIP (3:1)-containing articles used in manufacturing equipment and the semiconductor industry.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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Authorizing Statutes

15 USC 2605(h)
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Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention Program

Reference Number:

202411-0970-011

Omb Control Number:

0970-0155

Agency:

HHS/ACF

Received:

2024-11-19

Concluded:

2024-11-20

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention Program

Key Information

Abstract

The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA), which authorizes the CBCAP program, states the following under Section 202 Eligibility (specifically Sec. 202(1)(D)): “in the case of a State that has designated a State trust fund advisory board for purposes of administering funds under this title (as such, title was in effect on the date of the enactment of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act Amendments of 1996) and in which one or more entities that leverage Federal, State, and private funds (as described in subparagraph (C)) exist, the Governor shall designate the lead entity only after full consideration of the capacity and expertise of all entities desiring to be designated under subparagraph (A);” In its guidance to states (see CBCAP Application Requirements Template), the Children’s Bureau (CB) requires states to submit an original signed letter from the Governor as part of the annual application of CBCAP funds. The guidance further requires the letter to include the following information (1) designate the lead agency to receive the funds; and (2) contain a statement that the lead agency was designated only after giving full and equal consideration to the capacity and expertise of all entities desiring to be the lead agency, to the extent such requirement applies. Since approval of this information collection, states have informed CB it is challenging and takes considerable time to fulfill this requirement under current guidance. To address these challenges, the CB is seeking approval of nonsubstantive changes to the process (outlined in detail in the justification memo) for how this information is collected.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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30-Day FRN
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Authorizing Statutes

42 USC 5116 et seq
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Pub.L. 111 - 320 201, 202, 205, and 20
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Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Process for FSA ID Account Creation for Individuals without a Social Security Number in Connection with Person Authentication Service (PAS)

Reference Number:

202411-1845-003

Omb Control Number:

1845-0179

Agency:

ED/FSA

Received:

2024-11-19

Concluded:

2024-11-19

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
Process for FSA ID Account Creation for Individuals without a Social Security Number in Connection with Person Authentication Service (PAS)

Key Information

Abstract

Applicants, parents, and borrowers establish an FSA ID, which includes a username and password. The FSA ID is used for the purposes of verifying the identity of the user; allowing users to establish an account with FSA; safeguarding their personally identifiable and financial information; signing applications and loan related documents; providing users access to their information and applications; allowing users to customize or update their accounts with FSA; renewing or revoking a user’s account with FSA; and supporting the Federal Student Aid Information Center (FSAIC) help desk functions. The specific questions that applicants are asked to answer in the FSA ID creation process are described separately in the Creating FSA-ID document, which explains the use of the questions in the application. As part of the standard process, users’ information is matched with information from the Social Security Administration (SSA) to confirm their SSA status. In the event of individuals who do not have a SSN to match, they are instructed to the contact the Department and provide one of the following documents (U.S. State/Territory Driver’s License; U.S. State or City Identification Card; Foreign Passport; Municipal identification card; Community ID; or a Consular identification card) and a signed attestation of their identity under the penalty of perjury, as instructed by the Privacy Act. This collection provides the process and application that individuals without an SSN may use to acquire an FSA ID to access the statutory and regulatory benefits of the Title IV, HEA student financial assistance programs.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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30-Day FRN
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Authorizing Statutes

Pub.L. 116 - 91 6
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Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Engines and Vehicles Phase 3 (Final Rule)

Reference Number:

202411-2060-006

Omb Control Number:

2060-0753

Agency:

EPA/OAR

Received:

2024-11-19

Concluded:

2025-01-15

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

New collection (Request for a new OMB Control Number)
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Engines and Vehicles Phase 3 (Final Rule)

Key Information

Abstract

This ICR covers the information collection activities associated with EPAs final rule promulgating new greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards for model year (MY) 2032 and later heavy-duty highway vehicles (the Phase 3 standards). These new standards phase in beginning as early MY 2027 for certain vehicle categories. This final rule also includes updates to the averaging, banking, and trading (ABT) program to restrict use of the multiplier portion of credits earned from advanced technologies, and provides other transitional flexibilities to assist manufacturers in the implementation of the Phase 3 program. The Agency is also finalizing additional revisions and clarifying editorial amendments to certain nonroad vehicle provisions in 40 CFR parts 1039 and 1054, certain highway heavy-duty vehicle provisions in 40 CFR part 1037, and certain test procedures for heavy-duty engines in 40 CFR part 1065. The new standards will apply to manufacturers beginning with MY 2027. Data would be submitted annually, consistent with EPAs existing certification program requirements. Information activities associated with the final rule are largely covered by existing emission certification and reporting requirements for EPAs heavy-duty engine (HDE) and heavy-duty vehicle (HDV) emission control program. This information collection statement covers only the additional burden associated with the final rule: reviewing the regulations, for all manufacturers; and complying with new customer-facing battery state-of-health monitor and warranty provisions, for plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicle manufacturers, and making associated changes to vehicle owners manuals. Concerning other aspects of the rule, manufacturers already submit the data that would be required for certification to the standards to EPAs certification system (under programmatic ICRs); there would be a change only to the specific data, not to its reporting. The existing programmatic information collection request is: EPA ICR Number 0783.65, OMB Control Number 2060-0104, Motor Vehicle Emission Certification and Fuel Economy Compliance, 40 CFR Parts 86 and 600. To avoid duplication, this collection request covers only the incremental burden associated with the heavy-duty GHG Phase 3 final rule.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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Authorizing Statutes

42 USC 7521
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Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Museum Assessment Program Application

Reference Number:

202411-3137-001

Omb Control Number:

3137-0101

Agency:

IMLS

Received:

2024-11-19

Concluded:

2025-01-10

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

Revision of a currently approved collection
Museum Assessment Program Application

Key Information

Abstract

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) requests approval to collect information as part of its Museum Assessment Program (MAP) under the Paperwork Reduction Act. MAP is a technical assistance program that offers museums an opportunity to strengthen operations and plan for the future through a process of self-assessment, institutional activities, and consultative peer review. Program participants choose from among four assessments: Organizational, Collections Stewardship, Community and Audience Engagement, and Education and Interpretation. The participant museum completes a self-study workbook; a peer reviewer visits the museum; the peer reviewer, staff, and leadership engage in pre-arranged activities; and the peer reviewer provides a written report with prioritized recommendations reflecting the assessment type chosen. The participant museum may request a follow-up visit after the original visit has been completed. The purpose of this information collection is to support the administration and implementation of MAP.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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30-Day FRN
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Presidential Action:

-

Title:

General Services Acquisition Regulation; Contract Administration and Quality Assurance-- GSAR Sections Affected: 542, 546, 552.242-70 & 552.546-70, and GSA Forms 308 & 1678)

Reference Number:

202411-3090-005

Omb Control Number:

3090-0027

Agency:

GSA

Received:

2024-11-19

Concluded:

2025-01-07

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

Extension without change of a currently approved collection
General Services Acquisition Regulation; Contract Administration and Quality Assurance-- GSAR Sections Affected: 542, 546, 552.242-70 & 552.546-70, and GSA Forms 308 & 1678)

Key Information

Abstract

This information collection supports the monitoring, delivery, and inspection of stock and special order program items via: GSA Form 1678, Status Report of Orders and Shipments, via GSAR clause 552.242-70, Status Report of Orders and Shipments GSAR clause 552.242-70, Status Report of Orders and Shipments, was established to monitor the current delivery status of orders placed with supply contractors to ensure that timely corrective action could be taken by the Government in the event the contractor’s performance was delinquent. The GSA Form 1678, Status Report of Orders and Shipments, was developed for supply contractors to use to meet the requirements of the clause. When GSA issues direct delivery orders, data from this form is the only notification to FAS that timely shipment has been made to customer agencies. GSAR clause 552.246-70, Source Inspection by Quality Approved Manufacturer GSAR clause 552.246-70, Source Inspection by Quality Approved Manufacturer, is used when source inspection is performed by a quality approved manufacturer. The use of this clause allows GSA to make the most efficient use of its inspectors by devoting them to the contracts that require inspection by the Government, to checking contracts that require inspection by the Government, to checking the contractors’ inspection system, and to inspecting supplies under contracts where complaints are received regarding the quality or supplies. The clause requires contractors to document and retain inspection and testing records. This requirement should minimize the paperwork burden on contractors, while continuing to protect the Government interests. GSA Form 308, Notice of Inspection, via GSAR clause 552.246-71, Source Inspection by Government The GSAR clause 552.246-71, Source Inspection by Government , is used when source inspection is performed by Government personnel. Through this clause, GSA established a program providing for Government reliance on contractors to inspect supplies under certain contracts that provide for source inspection instead of relying on Government personnel to inspect supplies. For deliveries to civilian facilities, the clause requires the use of GSA Form 308. For delivery to military facilities (or computer formatted equivalents), the Department of Defence DD Form 250 is required.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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30-Day FRN
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Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Reform of Long-Term Care Facilities Requirements for Respiratory Illness Reporting (CMS-10914)

Reference Number:

202411-0938-007

Omb Control Number:

0938-1479

Agency:

HHS/CMS

Received:

2024-11-19

Concluded:

2024-12-20

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

New collection (Request for a new OMB Control Number)
Reform of Long-Term Care Facilities Requirements for Respiratory Illness Reporting (CMS-10914)

Key Information

Abstract

Sections 1818 and 1919 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 1395i-3 and 42 U.S.C. 1396r, respectively) specify certain requirements that a LTC facility must meet to participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs. In particular, sections 1819(d)(4)(B) and 1919(d)(4)(B) require that a SNF or NF must meet such other requirements relating to the health, safety, and well-being of residents or relating to the physical facilities thereof as the Secretary many find necessary. Under the authority of sections 1819, 1919, 1128I (b) and (c), and 1150B of the Act, the Secretary proposes to establish in regulation the requirements that an LTC facility must meet to participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs. We are revising the information collection requirements for the proposed respiratory illness reporting that would replace the current requirement on COVID-19 reporting at § 483.80(g) based on the proposed rule, Medicare Program; Calendar Year (CY) 2025 Home Health Prospective Payment System (HH PPS) Rate Update; HH Quality Reporting Program Requirements; HH Value-Based Purchasing Expanded Model Requirements; Home Intravenous Immune Globulin (IVIG) Items and Services Rate Update; and Other Medicare Policies (July 2, 2024/89 FR 55312). In this proposed rule, we revised the LTC requirements for COVID-19 reporting to establish a new requirement for respiratory illness reporting that includes COVID-19, RSV, and influenza.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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30-Day FRN
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Authorizing Statutes

42 USC 13950i-3
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42 USC 1396r
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Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Applications for Part C Medicare Advantage, 1876 Cost Plans, and Employer Group Waiver Plans to Provide Part C Benefits (CMS-10237)

Reference Number:

202411-0938-004

Omb Control Number:

0938-0935

Agency:

HHS/CMS

Received:

2024-11-19

Concluded:

2025-01-15

Action:

Approved without change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

Revision of a currently approved collection
Applications for Part C Medicare Advantage, 1876 Cost Plans, and Employer Group Waiver Plans to Provide Part C Benefits (CMS-10237)

Key Information

Abstract

In order to provide health benefits to Medicare beneficiaries under the Medicare Advantage Program and/or the 1876 Cost Plan, applicant must meet regulatory requirements to enter into a contract with CMS, or to continue to contract with CMS. The revised Part C application is created to capture the applicants’ information.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
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30-Day FRN
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Authorizing Statutes

42 USC 1395mm
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Pub.L. 110 - 275 161
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Pub.L. 108 - 173 1857
View Law

Presidential Action:

-

Title:

Phasedown of Hydrofluorocarbons: Management of Certain Hydrofluorocarbons and Substitutes under Subsection (h) of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020 (FInal Rule)

Reference Number:

202410-2060-008

Omb Control Number:

2060-0760

Agency:

EPA/OAR

Received:

2024-11-19

Concluded:

2024-12-19

Action:

Approved with change

Status:

Active

Request Type:

New collection (Request for a new OMB Control Number)
Phasedown of Hydrofluorocarbons: Management of Certain Hydrofluorocarbons and Substitutes under Subsection (h) of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020 (FInal Rule)

Key Information

Abstract

This ICR covers provisions under subsection (h) of the AIM Act that establishes a program for the management of HFCs, including requirements for leak repair and use of automatic leak detection (ALD) systems for certain equipment containing using HFC refrigerants containing HFCs and certain substitutes; reclaim standard; use of reclaimed HFCs for servicing and/or repair in certain sectors or subsectors; the servicing, repair, disposal, or installation of fire suppression equipment that contains HFCs, as well as requirements related to technician training in the fire suppression sector; recovery of HFCs from cylinders prior to discarding.

Federal Register Notices

60-Day FRN
View Notice

Authorizing Statutes

42 USC 7675
View Law

Presidential Action:

-
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