Re: incorporation
On Wed, 20 Aug 1997 14:28:10 -0400, Eloy A. Paris wrote:
> The purpose behind the official incorporation for Debian is still beyand me,
> and the more I think about it I don't like it. The project (like linux) has > always been for freeholders all over the world. Why the US government
> suddenly has to get involded, I have no idea. Why does Debian need to be an
> artificial US government privedged entiy? It's our OS. We collectivly own it.
> Why do we suddenly need permission from someone to exists I'm sure some of
> the other anarchists here are also wondering about these things....
I had nothing to do with the decision or the incorporation, or any discussions, but as an attorney I'll stick my head in:
1) as someone already mentioned, it makes a difference for donations.
2) It has nothing to do with the US government. States grant corporate charters, not the feds (Although there are a handful of federally chartered corporations: Postal Service, Sallie Mae, etc.).
3) Liability. The corporation is legally a person. If someone got the bright idea to sue Debian (for whatever reason, including frivolous), individuals would be liable without incorporation. Incorporated, individual liability extends only to acts of that individual.
rick
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