Bluewater Free is a company that reduces pollution in both freshwater and saltwater sources in the United States. A Bluewater Free engineer created a new device with a special lid to take water samples by fieldworkers. For the first time, fieldworkers will be able to take water samples and keep their gloves on, limiting their personal exposure to harmful pollutants.
Which statement best summarizes how the U.S. government would address this scenario to protect intellectual property rights?
A. A trademark would be registered once the company submits an application and it is reviewed and approved by the USPTO.
B. The 1976 Copyright Act provides authors with the legal rights to copy, distribute, and display their work publicly.
C. A patent would be issued once the company submits an application and it is reviewed and approved by the USPTO.
D. A patent would be issued once the company submits an application and it is reviewed and approved by the USPTO.
A trade secret would be protected by the 1979 Uniform Trade Secrets Act (UTSA).