> It is still possible to protect an invention as a trade secret. Of course, if someone later independently invents and files, they get the patent. That's been

> It is still possible to protect an invention as a trade secret. Of course, if someone later independently invents and files, they get the patent. That's been true for decades under existing law. > The earlier user is immune from infringement of the patent under the "prior user defense", though. This will be a new feature of the law under the new legislation.