Treasury Halts Enforcement of Shell Company Database, Fueling Fraud Concerns
The Treasury Department announced it will not enforce the Biden administration’s beneficial ownership information database rule for small businesses, effectively suspending penalties for non-compliance. This decision, praised by President Trump, halts the requirement for millions of small businesses to register owner information by January 1, 2024, despite ongoing litigation challenging the rule’s legality. The rule, intended to combat money laundering and shell company formations, has faced criticism for its potential privacy concerns and regulatory burden. This action is framed as part of the Trump administration’s effort to reduce regulations impacting small businesses.