February 9, 2012
Securities and Exchange Comm.
Dear Securities and Exchange Comm.,
For many years shareholders have submitted proposals for company proxy statements seeking disclosure of the company's political contributions and expenditures. These proposals are usually voted down by the mutual funds and other large corporate investors. It is time for the Commission to act so investors will have information on this important area.
In the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, publicly traded corporations can be expected to become even more active in using corporate, i.e. shareholder, funds for political purposes. If shareholders are to make knowledgeable decisions in voting for the directors of public companies, and in making investment decisions, it is vital that they know the amounts and the recipients of corporate political contributions and expenses.
Therefore I urge the Commission to adopt a rule requiring publicly traded corporations to disclose the nature and amount of their political spending.
Thank you for considering my comment.
Sincerely,
jeffrey lapic