A member of the House committee told a hearing the USPTOs fee-setting authority must be reauthorized to prevent politicization and preserve access for small and micro entities; he warned that recent firings of advisory-panel members and influence from wealthy actors threaten the agencys independence.

County and federal officials celebrated the ribbon cutting for the Orange County Innovation Center in Pine Hills, a new multi-generational facility funded with $11 million from the county (including $9 million in ARPA funds) and $850,000 in federal community project funding secured by Congressman Maxwell Frost.

Members pressed witnesses on the costs of 50‑state licensing, the promise of regulatory sandboxes, and questions about fintech access to Federal Reserve payment rails; witnesses urged uniformity, predictable rules, and appropriate AML/KYC safeguards.

Barnell details obstacles faced in raising venture capital for startups outside traditional hubs

Mister Barnell highlights challenges in startup funding and the need for supportive policies.

Senator Wiener promotes SB 53 to enhance AI safety and democratize technological access.