Wagner Introduces the "Small Business Freedom to Grow Act."

Washington, DC - Congresswoman Ann Wagner (MO-2) released the following statement after introducing the Small Business Freedom to Grow Act, which would allow smaller companies to have access to many of the capital-raising advantages enjoyed only by larger companies:

"Small businesses are the engines of a vibrant economy. Yet, during one of the slowest economic recoveries in modern history, Washington's outdated policies are hurting the very people responsible for creating good-paying jobs," said Rep. Wagner. "That's why I authored the Small Business Freedom to Grow Act, which would help create an environment for smaller public companies to raise more capital and hire more workers. This legislation would level the playing field currently enjoyed by larger companies, and strengthen investor protections."

"For far too long, Washington has made it harder for smaller businesses to thrive in this tough economy. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass this common-sense legislation out of the Financial Services Committee this week."

Background:

•Since being elected to represent the people of Missouri's 2nd District, Congresswoman Wagner has helped author three bills that have been voted out of the Financial Services Committee in bipartisan fashion.

•Just last year, the Retail Investor Protection Act passed the House of Representatives with bipartisan support.

•The Small Business Freedom to Grow Act will be marked up this week in the House Financial Services Committee.

The Small Business Freedom to Grow Act would give smaller public companies access to many of the capital-raising advantages currently enjoyed only by larger companies.

•Allows S-1 Registration Statements to Automatically Update, which eliminates excessive filing requirements and costly red tape.

•Expands shelf registration for smaller public companies under $75 million, which allows for expedited stock registration.

•Gives eligible companies more control over the timing of their offerings.

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