What is the significance of the change from 37 CFR 1.60 to 37 CFR 1.53(b) for patent applicants?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 9 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. The change from 37 CFR 1.60 to 37 CFR 1.53(b) represents a significant shift in the procedure for filing continuation and divisional applications. After December 1, 1997, all such applications are processed under 37 CFR 1.53(b), which may have different requirements and procedures. Patent applicants need to be aware of this change to ensure they are following the correct, current procedures when filing continuation or divisional applications. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 9 rules Collapse Individuals Must Disclose Material Information for Patentability MPEP 2005 Requirement for Examiner to Obtain Reasonably Necessary Information MPEP 2005 Examiner Can Require Information Under 37 CFR 1.105 MPEP 2005 Materiality vs Reasonable Necessity for Disclosure MPEP 2005 Permitted Information Required for Examination Not Necessarily Material to Patentability MPEP 2005 Required Examiner May Require Assignee Information MPEP 2005 Permitted Examiner Can Require Drug Product Manufacturing Details MPEP 2005 Permitted Requirement for Submission of Non-Patentability Material MPEP 2001.04 Examiner Can Use Electronic Databases for Patent Searches MPEP 2135 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is an inventor&#8217;s certificate and how does it relate to patent priority rights? What happens if an international application designating the US is withdrawn? How does an international application designating the US affect benefit claims? Can an international application be used as a basis for priority in a U.S. national application? What happens if an international application designating the US is published in a language other than English?