Can a Secrecy Order be modified or rescinded?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. Yes, applicants may petition for rescission or modification of a Secrecy Order:n n Applicants can informally contact the sponsoring defense agency to discuss rendering the order ineffectual, or formally petition the Commissioner for Patents to rescind the order. n Rescission may also be possible by expunging sensitive subject matter from the application, if it’s not needed for an enabling disclosure under 35 U.S.C. 112 . n Applicants can also petition for a permit to disclose the invention to another or to modify the order, fully stating the reason or purpose. (MPEP 120 Section V) n Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Petition for Secrecy Order Rescission or Modification MPEP 120 Permitted Rescission of Secrecy Order by Expunging Sensitive Subject Matter MPEP 120 Permitted Petition for Secrecy Order Modification or Rescission MPEP 120 Permit to Disclose Invention Modification MPEP 120 Permitted Types of Secrecy Orders for Patent Applications MPEP 120 Petition for Modification of Secrecy Order Must Identify Countries and Disclosees MPEP 120 Required Requirements for Petitioning Rescission or Modification of Secrecy Order MPEP 120 Subject Matter Under Secrecy Order Must Be Protected MPEP 120 Required Petition for Removal of Secrecy Order Required MPEP 120 Required Type II Secrecy Order for Patent Applications with Classified Data MPEP 120 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How long does a Secrecy Order remain in effect? What is the scope of a Secrecy Order? What are the different types of Secrecy Orders? What is a Secrecy Order? What are the consequences of violating a secrecy order on a patent application?