Rhode Island investors have rights and protections under numerous state and federal laws and regulations.
The Rhode Island Uniform Securities Act (RIUSA) is the state law that regulates the sale of securities in Rhode Island. It is administered by the Rhode Island Division of Securities, which is part of the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation.
The RIUSA is designed to protect investors from fraud and to ensure that investors have access to accurate information about the securities they are considering purchasing.
The RIUSA requires that all securities offered for sale in Rhode Island be registered with the Division of Securities, unless the securities or transactions are exempt. Exempt securities include:
Securities issued by the United States or the state of Rhode Island
Securities issued by certain non-profit organizations
Securities offered in certain private transactions
The RIUSA also requires that all broker-dealers, agents, and investment advisers who offer or sell securities in Rhode Island be registered with the Division of Securities.
Here are some of the key provisions of the RIUSA:
Registration of securities: All securities offered for sale in Rhode Island must be registered with the Division of Securities, unless the securities or transactions are exempt.
Registration of broker-dealers, agents, and investment advisers: All broker-dealers, agents, and investment advisers who offer or sell securities in Rhode Island must be registered with the Division of Securities.
Anti-fraud provisions: The RIUSA prohibits fraud and other unfair practices in the sale of securities.
Enforcement: The Division of Securities is responsible for enforcing the RIUSA. The Division can investigate alleged violations of the law and take enforcement actions, such as issuing cease-and-desist orders and imposing fines.
If you are considering investing in securities in Rhode Island, it is important to understand the RIUSA. You can learn more about the law by visiting the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation website or by contacting the Division of Securities.
In addition to Rhode Island Uniform Securities Act, the following federal laws and regulations protect investors:
Contact our firm to discuss your rights and options under Rhode Island and federal securities law.