Gay Couples Seek Equality in Investment Rules

Married straight couples can combine incomes to meet certain investment thresholds

A group of startup investors and venture capitalists are asking U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Mary Jo White to ensure investment rights equality for gay couples.

In a Sept. 4 letter, more than 50 people with a campaign known as StartupEquality.org urged the SEC to afford gay couples the same rights as straight couples to invest in private placements and other startups.

At issue is an SEC rule that defines who is eligible to participate in private stock offerings.