Quick Path IDS Pilot Program

USPTO News - The USPTO is implementing a pilot program effective May 16 - September 30, 2012 that is "intended to reduce pendency and applicant costs when an information disclosure statement (IDS) is filed after payment of the issue fee". IDS submissions made after the payment of the issue fee in accordance with this pilot program will be considered by the examiner unless the examiner determines prosecution must be reopened. Prosecution will only be reopened where necessary. Otherwise the examiner will consider the IDS, a Corrected Notice of Allowability will be issued, and the application will proceed to issuance with the considered references appearing on the face of the patent.

Federal Register Notice: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-05-10/pdf/2012-11222.pdf