Speaking at a digital assets summit hosted by Vanderbilt University and the Blockchain Association on April 6, 2026, SEC Chair Paul Atkins stated:
“We’ll have reg crypto that we’ll be proposing here shortly. It’s in fact at OIRA right now, which is the next step before being published, so that’s exciting.”
The proposal aims to give crypto projects a clear path to operate and raise funds without immediate full registration, while still providing meaningful investor protections. The startup exemption would let projects raise a limited amount of capital over four years, provided they meet disclosure requirements.
Atkins also highlighted that the SEC is developing an innovation exemption — essentially a regulatory sandbox — to encourage on-chain experimentation in a controlled environment.
The crypto industry has long pushed for regulatory clarity. Current uncertainty has led to enforcement actions, legal gray areas, and hesitation from institutional players. A well-designed safe harbor could:
Atkins emphasized that while the SEC can act through rulemaking, legislation remains important for long-term stability that survives changes in administration.
The proposal is now under review by OIRA, the White House office that examines federal regulations before they are published. Once OIRA completes its review, the SEC is expected to release the formal proposal for public comment.
Atkins expressed optimism that meaningful progress on both the safe harbor and the innovation exemption will come “shortly.”
This is a significant development for the U.S. crypto industry. If finalized, the safe harbor framework could mark one of the most important regulatory milestones since the SEC began engaging seriously with digital assets.
It signals a more constructive approach under Chair Atkins compared to previous years, focusing on clarity and innovation rather than enforcement-first tactics.
