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Final Rule Requires Technical Interchange for IR&D Cost Allowability

Client Alert | 1 min read | 11.14.16

On November 4, 2016, DoD issued a final rule requiring contractors performing IR&D projects initiated in FY2017 or later to engage in a technical interchange with DoD, and report the occurrence of this interchange, before the costs for such projects may be deemed allowable (a topic previously discussed here). Although the rule is stated to be intended to promote DoD awareness of IR&D projects and provide feedback to contractors, it is likely to impose an administrative burden on contractors and DoD alike and could have a chilling effect on IR&D investment, particularly because it is silent regarding the allowability of IR&D costs if DoD fails to engage.

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Client Alert | 4 min read | 12.30.25

Are All Baby Products Related? TTAB Says “No”

The United States Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB or Board) recently issued a refreshed opinion in the trademark dispute Naterra International, Inc. v. Samah Bensalem, where Naterra International, Inc. petitioned the TTAB to cancel Samah Bensalem’s registration for the mark BABIES' MAGIC TEA based on its own BABY MAGIC mark. On remand from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, the TTAB reconsidered an expert’s opinion about relatedness of goods based on the concept of “umbrella branding” and found that the goods are unrelated and therefore again denied the petition for cancellation....