As a VA employee, are you required to disclose intellectual property to the VA?

Disclosing intellectual property to the VA is essential because this process allows the VA to assess whether it has a claim to the invention or discovery. VA policies and federal laws generally mandate that employees report any inventions or works that could potentially fall under the VA's interest. This ensures that the institution can protect its rights to the intellectual property, which may include patent rights, and facilitates the proper management of innovations that arise in the course of employment.

Additionally, such disclosure helps in maintaining transparency within the agency and promotes collaboration in research and development efforts. The emphasis on thorough reporting aligns with the VA’s mission to effectively utilize its resources to benefit public health and welfare.

In contrast, stating that it is optional undermines the regulatory framework guiding VA employees regarding intellectual property. The idea that only significant inventions need to be reported minimizes the importance of early-stage innovations, which can be valuable. Similarly, limiting disclosure to inventions funded by federal resources neglects the reality that not all intellectual contributions are tied directly to federal funding but may still belong to the VA.