USPTO releases revision to Trademark Manual of Examining Procedure

The USPTO released the October 2018 revision to the Trademark Manual of Examining Procedure (TMEP) yesterday, which marks the most recent revision to the TMEP since October 2017.  In addition to providing numerous clarifications, supplementary examples, and stylistic edits throughout the TMEP, the October 2018 revision also incorporates new case law and relevant precedential decisions reported prior to September 15, 2018.  Two new subsections have been added:  § 1201.06(c) (“Applicant Using Designation of a U.S. Government Agency or Instrumentality”) and § 1212.06(e)(vi) (“Parodies and Copies”).  A more detailed summary of changes may be found here.