By Manya Saini

(Reuters) -Companies looking to sidestep disruptions caused by the U.S. government shutdown to their initial public offerings can tap a provision that allows them to press ahead with their listing plans without the need for regulatory approvals.

Biotech startup MapLight became the first company to file for a listing under the provision late on Monday.

The U.S. market regulator has halted IPO reviews as the shutdown enters its second week.

WHAT HAPPENS TO THE SEC DURING A GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN?

According to its contingency plan, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has furloughed over 90% of its staff, retaining around 390 employees to handle critical enforcement actions and market monitoring.

The agency, which oversees the public markets, will not process IPO fili

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