USPTO Seeks Comments on Tribal Insignia Database Renewal
Published Date: 5/28/2026
Notice
Summary
The USPTO is asking for public feedback on renewing its Native American Tribal Insignia Database info collection by June 29, 2026. This helps protect tribal symbols and makes sure the paperwork isn’t too much for folks to handle. If you’re involved with tribal insignias or trademarks, this update affects you and keeps the process smooth and fair.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Database Helps Trademark Review
The USPTO maintains a public Native American Tribal Insignia Database (OMB Control Number 0651-0048) that serves as a reference for trademark examining attorneys to evaluate whether a mark may falsely suggest a connection to an official tribal insignia. The database is included within the trademark search system, is publicly available on the USPTO website, and includes online help for using the system.
Paperwork Burden on Tribal Governments
If you represent a federally or state-recognized Native American tribe and request entry of an official insignia into the USPTO database, you must submit a written request with a depiction of the insignia, the tribal name and correspondence address, a copy of the tribal resolution adopting the insignia, and a signed statement by an authorized official. The USPTO estimates each submission takes about 1 hour, there are an estimated 39 annual respondents and responses, and the updated estimated non-hourly cost burden is $25 (postage rate updated to $12.25).
Database Entry Does Not Create Trademark Rights
If a tribe’s official insignia is entered into the USPTO database, that entry does not confer any rights to the tribe, is not the legal equivalent of federal trademark registration under 15 U.S.C. 1051 et seq., does not create any legal presumption of validity or priority, and does not carry the benefits of federal trademark registration.
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