Startups often connect with wealthy backers – or “angels” – at public events called “demo days.” These are conferences typically hosted by universities, local governments and other groups where entrepreneurs can showcase their ideas. Unfortunately, current rules require these entrepreneurs to verify that investors are accredited and meet minimum net worth or income thresholds, forcing angels to disclose personal financial details.

Last week, I voted for legislation to remove these barriers and exempt demo days from current rules that can deter angels from supporting start-ups that desperately need financial backing to grow and hire. I am pleased to report that the Helping Angels Lead Our Startups (HALOS) Act passed in the U.S. House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support and now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

If signed into law, I believe the process for angel investors to pump capital into startups will be substantially easier.  I believe we will start to see more young businesses flourish and more Americans with paychecks to support their families.”