59.1-502.16 - Idea or information submission.

§ 59.1-502.16. Idea or information submission.

(a) The following rules apply to a submission of an idea or information forthe creation, development, or enhancement of computer information which isnot made pursuant to an existing agreement requiring the submission:

(1) A contract is not formed and is not implied from the mere receipt of anunsolicited submission.

(2) Engaging in a business, trade, or industry that by custom or practiceregularly acquires ideas is not in itself an express or implied solicitationof the information.

(3) If the recipient seasonably notifies the person making the submissionthat the recipient maintains a procedure to receive and review submissions, acontract is formed only if:

(A) the submission is made and accepted pursuant to that procedure; or

(B) the recipient expressly agrees to terms concerning the submission.

(b) An agreement to disclose an idea creates a contract enforceable againstthe receiving party only if the idea as disclosed is confidential, concrete,and novel to the business, trade, or industry or the party receiving thedisclosure otherwise expressly agreed.

(2000, cc. 101, 996.)