42 USC 7261c - Technology partnerships ombudsman

U.S Code last checked for updates: Nov 22, 2024

§ 7261c.

Technology partnerships ombudsman

(a)

Appointment of ombudsman

(b)

Qualifications

(c)

Duties

Each ombudsman appointed under subsection (a) shall—

(1)

serve as the focal point for assisting the public and industry in resolving complaints and disputes with the national laboratory or facility regarding technology partnerships, patents, and technology licensing;

(2)

promote the use of collaborative alternative dispute resolution techniques such as mediation to facilitate the speedy and low-cost resolution of complaints and disputes, when appropriate; and

(3)

report quarterly on the number and nature of complaints and disputes raised, along with the ombudsman’s assessment of their resolution, consistent with the protection of confidential and sensitive information, to—

(A)

the Secretary;

(B)

the Administrator for Nuclear Security;

(C)

the Director of the Office of Dispute Resolution of the Department of Energy; and

(D)

the employees of the Department responsible for the administration of the contract for the operation of each national laboratory or facility that is a subject of the report, for consideration in the administration and review of that contract.

(Pub. L. 106–404, § 11, Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1749.)

cite as: 42 USC 7261c