The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that it is providing regulatory relief to publicly traded companies, investment companies, accountants, transfer agents, municipal advisors and others affected by Hurricane Florence.  The loss of property, power, transportation, and mail delivery due to the hurricane poses challenges for some individuals and entities that are required to provide information to the SEC and shareholders.  

To address compliance issues caused by Hurricane Florence, the Commission issued an order that conditionally exempts affected persons from certain requirements of the federal securities laws for periods following the weather event.  

The Commission also adopted interim final temporary rules that extend the filing deadlines for specified reports and forms that companies must file pursuant to Regulation Crowdfunding and Regulation A. 

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

In connection with the Commission relief, issued in the order and interim final temporary rules, the Commission staff will take the following no-action positions with respect to affected parties' obligations under the Exchange Act, the Securities Act, and the Investment Advisers Act:

Some companies and other affected persons may require additional or different assistance in their efforts to comply with the requirements of the federal securities laws and therefore are encouraged to contact Commission staff.  The Commission staff will address these and any disclosure-related issues on a case-by-case basis in light of their fact-specific nature.