On December 11, 2020, the United States Department of Labor (DOL) issued a pre-publication version of its final regulations with respect to proxy voting in plans that are subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The purpose of the rule is to clarify the DOL’s longstanding position regarding fiduciary responsibilities to vote proxies, to coordinate with recent changes implemented by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for investment advisers, and to dovetail on recent changes in DOL guidance regarding ERISA plan investments that promote environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. These final regulations generally apply following the expiration of the 30-day period following publication in the Federal Register (although certain provisions are not effective until January 31, 2022 for plan fiduciaries other than investment advisers).
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