Womble Perspectives Womble Bond Dickinson

In the fast-paced world of loan transactions, efficient closing processes are crucial for both lenders and borrowers. A seamless closing process not only saves time but also reduces costs and risks involved in the transaction, and one critical yet often underappreciated role in this process is that of local opinion counsel. These legal professionals provide invaluable expertise on state-specific laws, ensuring that all legal aspects of the transaction are compliant with local regulations. Rea...

After nearly a quarter of a century, the World Intellectual Property Organization has approved a new IP treaty: the WIPO Treaty on Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge. This treaty marks a significant milestone in global intellectual property regulation. Understanding the intricacies of this treaty is essential for anyone involved in the field of IP, particularly given its far-reaching implications.Read the full article.About the authorAlexander P. Wharton

On May 1, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill prohibiting the sale, holding, or distribution of cultivated meat in the state of Florida. This legislation defines "cultivated meat" as "any meat or food product produced from cultured animal cells," encompassing a broad range of products beyond just meat. The law applies to any food or drink for human consumption, including components and dietary supplements.Read the full article.About the authorChristine Lawson

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act, or TCPA, has long been a significant regulation for businesses engaged in telemarketing and text messaging campaigns. At its core, the TCPA aims to prevent unwanted calls and messages, especially those using automatic telephone dialing systems, often referred to as ATDS. Recent court rulings, such as Soliman v. Subway Franchisee Advertising Fund Trust, have further refined the definition of ATDS, impacting how businesses can legally reach out to potentia...

The Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice has made a bold move in its ongoing effort to ensure fair competition within the healthcare industry with the announcement of the Task Force on Health Care Monopolies and Collusion on May 9. According to Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter, "The task force will identify and root out monopolies and collusive practices that increase costs, decrease quality, and create single points of failure in the health care industry.” Read the ...

On May 10, 2024, the United States Patent and Trademark Office issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking concerning terminal disclaimers. These proposed changes are significant for stakeholders in the patent system, as they could profoundly impact the enforceability of patents associated with this type of disclaimer. Understanding these changes is crucial for anyone involved in the patent landscape to navigate the complexities and potential consequences these rules may bring.Read the full articl...