Statement From DuPont Chair and CEO Ellen Kullman on The America Invents Act

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The following statement has been provided by DuPont Chair and CEO Ellen Kullman who attended the signing of The America Invents Act (HR 1249) by U.S. President Barack Obama today.  Kullman is a member of the President's Council on Jobs and Competitiveness.

"The U.S. patent system is a cornerstone to innovation and job creation.  It is a critical component of American ingenuity and competitiveness.  The America Invents Act brings the U.S. patent system into the 21st century and will help speed and expand the innovation capacity of the American economy, creating new technologies, products and jobs.  We are pleased to see the Congress pass, and the President sign, this important legislation.

"The Act will speed R&D investment, new product development and the creation of jobs. It also will align the U.S. patent system more effectively with those of our global trading partners. That is why I have been working on patent reform on the President's Council on Jobs and Competitiveness.  DuPont has worked closely with the Congress and the Administration to improve U.S. patent law.  I am proud to be here to witness the signing of the most significant overhaul of U.S. patent law in 60 years.

"Our first U.S. patent was awarded by the United States in 1804 and the certificate was signed by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison.  We have received more than 37,000 patents since.  In 2010 we were awarded almost 700 U.S. patents, one of the highest totals in the company's history.  Patents have historically been an important tool in our efforts to deliver science that addresses global challenges such as food, energy and protection.  The America Invents Act will help DuPont more quickly convert our almost $2 billion per year investment in research and development into innovations we can bring to market with strong patent protection."

DuPont (NYSE: DD) has been bringing world-class science and engineering to the global marketplace in the form of innovative products, materials, and services since 1802.  The company believes that by collaborating with customers, governments, NGOs, and thought leaders we can help find solutions to such global challenges as providing enough healthy food for people everywhere, decreasing dependence on fossil fuels, and protecting life and the environment.  For additional information about DuPont and its commitment to inclusive innovation, please visit: www.dupont.com.

SOURCE DuPont