USPTO Announces Severe Measures Due to Diversion of Funds.
Absolutely disgusting that so many promising initiatives at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office are in jeopardy, especially at a time in our history where promoting innovation, protecting inventors’ rights, and encouraging the related economic development is so critical.
We don’t think we could have written a better post on this important topic, so please see Gene Quinn’s post at IP Watchdog for more information.
Anticipate This!™ | Patent and Trademark Law Blog 
A post on the cutbacks at the USPTO can also be found at the Director’s Forum blog here: http://www.uspto.gov/blog/director/entry/an_update_on_the_uspto
Unfortunately, due to budgetary pressures, it looks like the rumored Silicon Valley patent office (along with its imminent Detroit counterpart) will be delayed, along with other initiatives. What a shame.