Regulations often constrain economic growth and prevent the realization of new ideas and initiatives. The cost and burden of research, applications, reporting, compliance, fees, and possible administrative and civil penalties for violations can overwhelm all but the most strident and fully capitalized innovators. And in many instances of new and innovative products or services, it is not always clear what regulations may apply or if there are alternatives to compliance. Innovative businesses need greater certainty regarding what regulations may prohibit or restrict their business and how to proceed with operations without penalty. Fortunately, there are such solutions: regulatory sandboxes and letters of interpretation with presumption of authorization.
Spain’s Crisis is America’s Reminder—and Warning
Americans watching the events unfolding in Spain today should resist the temptation to dismiss them as Europe’s problem. In just a matter of hours, thousands of migrants crossed from Morocco into Spain’s North African enclave of Ceuta last week, overwhelming local authorities and prompting officials to plead for emergency assistance. These events follow a recent...