§12002 Definitions

Summary

Defines key words used in this chapter. An "invention" is a patented or patentable invention under title 35, or a new plant variety protected or protectable under the Plant Variety Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 2321 et seq.), that was created or developed because of work done under an agreement under this chapter. A "non‑Federal person" is a U.S.-based entity whose controlling interest (as the Secretary defines) is held by U.S. persons; it can be a for‑profit business, private foundation, nonprofit like a university, a trade or professional society, or a unit of state or local government. "Secretary" means the Secretary of Energy. "Small business" means a private firm that meets the SBA numerical size standard set under section 632(a) of title 15 for the SIC code the Secretary of Energy assigns to the project. "Source reduction" means actions that cut hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants entering waste streams or the environment (including fugitive emissions) before recycling, treatment, or disposal and that lower risks to health and the environment; it covers things like equipment, process, product, or material changes and better housekeeping, but not actions that only change a substance’s properties or volume when those actions are not essential to making a product or providing a service. "United States" includes the States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, and any other U.S. commonwealth, territory, or possession.