• Publicly discuss that they are raising money
• Raise money through crowdfunding
• Receive services like standard docs from incubators and online platforms
• Stay private if they have over 500 shareholders

Can we agree that these rules are a bit of insanity? In my view, these regulations are all about preventing entrepreneurs  from starting up a new company. These regulations prevent what could be a revolutionary and powerful way to use the web to reinvent the economy.

The Kauffman Foundation has a very succinct study that shows just how essential start-ups are to job creation.

There is bipartisan support for passing House Bill 3606 and it has reached the Senate . Obama is for it, as are many Republicans like Congressman Richard Hanna of New York. You’d think this would be a no-brainer, but alas, it is being politicised. The concerns have to do with consumer protection, and, fair enough, we don’t want rampant investment fraud. However, let’s just fix it, pass it, and quite screwing around. Not doing so at this point is irresponsible and the only people being protected are the super affluent who can afford the lawyers and already have access to capital. IPO’s and participation in the growth of small companies has been dominated by the super wealthy in the past — let’s give everybody a chance.

Instead of a handful of angel investors, let’s open the door to millions.

I’m all for consumer protection, but I’m also for consumer opportunity. If Americans want job growth and a dynamic economy they need to learn that some investments are risky and they should: a.) Do their homework, b.) Don’t invest in things they don’t understand, and, c.) Not invest any more than they can afford to lose. Yes, consumers should be protected from fraud, but they shouldn’t be blocked from investing their money in whatever they want.

So, Americans, please Sign The Letter.