From: Craig Slaughter [craigs@wvimb.org]
Sent: Monday, December 08, 2003 1:18 PM
To: rule-comments@sec.gov
Subject: S7-19-03: 

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the above referenced rule.

The West Virginia Investment Management Board, the state entity charged with
fiduciary responsibility for the investment of all State funds (pension,
employment security, tuition trust, etc.), supports broader and more
meaningful participation in the proxy process for nomination of directors.
While it is likely that some persons, corporate or individual, will fight
any change in the nomination process, the proposed rule referenced above is
certainly not a radical step.  If anything it appears cautious.

Thank you.

Craig Slaughter
Executive Director
West Virginia Investment Management Board