SEC's Proposed Rules on Conflict Minerals Disclosure Could Have Broad Impact

As required by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, the SEC has recently proposed a new set of public company disclosure rules regarding the use of "conflict minerals" from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (the DRC) and adjoining countries. The proposed new requirements are likely to impact a surprisingly large number of companies because conflict minerals are used in, or in the manufacture of, a wide variety of electronic products, including laptops, mobile phones, PDAs, DVD players, digital cameras, gaming devices and televisions. Conflict minerals may also be present in medical devices, airplanes, cars, machine tools, jewelry and a whole host of other products. The SEC has invited further comment on these proposed rules before they become final.

View this entire Alert in PDF.

This content is provided for general informational purposes only, and your access or use of the content does not create an attorney-client relationship between you or your organization and Cooley LLP, Cooley (UK) LLP, or any other affiliated practice or entity (collectively referred to as “Cooley”). By accessing this content, you agree that the information provided does not constitute legal or other professional advice. This content is not a substitute for obtaining legal advice from a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction and you should not act or refrain from acting based on this content. This content may be changed without notice. It is not guaranteed to be complete, correct or up to date, and it may not reflect the most current legal developments. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Do not send any confidential information to Cooley, as we do not have any duty to keep any information you provide to us confidential. This content may be considered Attorney Advertising and is subject to our legal notices.