October 1, 2007
Dear U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission:
I'm concerned about SEC File Number S7-16-07. I object to the fact that the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) is potentially weakening the ability for individual shareholders to present resolutions for votes.
I'm already concerned about the rights of corporations and the societal impacts of their legal "personhood". I'm concerned that this additional weakening would give them even more leeway to sidestep social responsibility. We need more, not less, shareholder involvement in American corporations. I support the rights of shareholders to use the resolution process to encourage responsible action by often troubled companies that engage in runaway CEO compensation, poor corporate governance, a history of polluting/inaction on climate change, racial/gender discrimination and other problem behaviors.
These problems often end up costing shareholders like me a lot of money in the long run as a result of lawsuits, clean-ups, damaged company reputations and other outcomes that drive stock prices down. The best remedy is when the companies in question are encouraged by shareholders to get on the right path and start acting as well governed, responsible corporate citizens. These are not companies that the SEC should be protecting from shareholders who are understandably concerned about what are often very serious risks to our long-term investments. These companies -- and, in fact, all companies -- need more scrutiny and feedback, not less.
I also believe that the real owners of America's companies should be able to help nominate corporate board members. This is a process that could use more openness and accountability. Investors have a duty to take their ownership role seriously. At the same time, the companies have a responsibility to investors: They should be expected to listen to their shareowners -- rather than working to limit the rights of shareholders to raise important issues, including the selection of corporate directors.
The SEC should focus on putting the interests of investors first. I urge Congress to monitor this situation and get involved to ensure that, above all other things, the SEC is the servant of the American public and its best interests. Do not allow the voice of investors to be silenced!
Thank you for your attention to my comments.
Sincerely,
Susan Loucks