Summary from the Federal Register
In order to efficiently allocate examination-related resources to address pendency, and in view of the low number of requests for Accelerated Examination and the availability of a statutory program to expedite the prosecution of applications (Track One, prioritized examination), the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is discontinuing the Accelerated Examination program for utility applications. The USPTO is also modifying the rules of practice to clarify the grounds for which a petition to make special may be granted and when a fee is required for such petition.
Dates
This rule is effective July 10, 2025. The USPTO will no longer accept petitions under the Accelerated Examination program filed on or after July 10, 2025 in utility applications.