September 2, 2007
Dear Chairman Cox:
I make it a habit to put my money where my mouth is. I am not likely to continue investing if I cannot voice my opinions on the behavior of the companies in which I invest my money. As a concerned investor, I am alarmed that the SEC has issued rules that could curtail or eliminate the ability of shareholders like myself to raise important issues with corporate management. I urge you to not curtail investors' rights to file advisory resolutions under Rule 14a-8.
Advisory resolutions play a vital role in encouraging corporations to be responsive to their owners. They help to promote improved corporate governance, greater accountability, and more meaningful disclosure.
Any actions that would restrict or eliminate advisory shareholder resolutions would be a disastrous step backwards. Please let me know what action you intend to take on this issue.
Yours sincerely,
Betsy Flory