DETROIT (AP) — The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's first satellite location outside of Washington, D.C., is expected to help entrepreneurs in Michigan get patent approvals more quickly.

Acting U.S. Commerce Secretary Rebecca Blank attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday at the Detroit site, where the first of 120 employees will begin work starting Monday. Blank says the Elijah J. McCoy office will empower "America's innovators" and help create jobs.

Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan says it's a boost for innovators in Michigan, which is home to research in areas including vehicles, agriculture and battery technology. Democratic Congressman John Conyers of Michigan says it will boost Detroit businesses.

The Detroit office is at the Stroh River Place building. The federal government is planning satellite offices in some other states.

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Online:

http://www.uspto.gov