On December 22, the SEC proposed amendments to Rule 163 of the Securities Act that would allow “well-known seasoned issuers” to authorize an underwriter or dealer to communicate with potential investors about securities offerings prior to filing registration statements. Under the current rule, only the issuer can communicate directly with potential investors before a registration statement is filed for an offering. Comments to the amendments must be received by January 27.  SEC Release.  SEC Proposed Amendments.