Which federal agency is responsible for accepting new patent applications?

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is the federal agency tasked with examining and granting patent applications, thereby protecting intellectual property rights in the United States. This includes evaluating new inventions, ensuring they meet the necessary criteria for patentability, and issuing patents that give inventors exclusive rights to their inventions for a specified period. The USPTO plays a critical role in fostering innovation by providing a framework for inventors to protect their creations and invest in their ideas without the fear of infringement.

The other agencies listed do not have the responsibility of managing patent applications. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission focuses on regulating the securities industry and protecting investors. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is concerned with workplace safety and health regulations. The U.S. Department of Agriculture deals primarily with policies related to farming, forestry, and food. Each agency has its distinct mission, but the USPTO is solely dedicated to intellectual property matters, making it the correct answer.