Despite my best efforts, I find myself writing this on the final day of the month. September has been full of projects, hearings, briefs, registration renewals, new applications, kids starting school, softball tournaments, and much more. While all these things were important, one event stands out as likely to have the most impact on you, the business and brand owner.

Last week, I had the chance to testify at the USPTO at a hearing on proposed trademark fee increases. I spoke about the effect these increases would have on small businesses. You read more about my specific comments, and about how to submit your own, at my blog, or you can even listen them on my podcast. I believe the proposed increases are too large and will have a dramatic impact on small businesses that are the heart of our US economy. I also believe the USPTO needs to be more transparent when explaining the purported needs for the increases.

Comments for this round of the process are due to the USPTO today; but stay tuned as there will be other opportunities later in the process as well.