These web pages describe the notice filing laws of each state (and the District of Columbia) with respect to investment advisers registered with the SEC. ERISA is a federal law that sets minimum standards for retirement plans in private industry.A private fund adviser must not be subject to disqualification from prior bad acts such as fraud or other securities law violations. Investment Advisers must register electronically through the Investment Adviser Registration Depository (IARD). Investment Advisers must register electronically through the Investment Adviser Registration Depository (IARD). Under ERISA, plan fiduciaries can be held liable for failing to fulfill their responsibilities. A more recent trend for defined contribution plan sponsors is to engage advisors for discretionary investment management. The law also protects benefits if a plan is terminated.