September 24, 2013
I’m writing in support of a strong Dodd-Frank rule 953(b).
Generally speaking, when someone in power wants information to remain hidden, it's because that information is damaging to them in some way. It seems difficult to believe that anyone could trust CEOs of large corporations less than they do now, or have a worse opinion of them. If I were in your shoes, I would automatically assume that anything that Wall Street companies oppose is probably good for the rest of us, and then let them try to disprove it, rather than forcing the have-nots to prove that what the haves want is really only good for the haves.
Disclosing corporate pay ratios between CEOs and average employees will discourage the outrageous and reckless pay practices that fueled the 2008 crash.
Knowing which corporations heap riches upon their executives while squeezing struggling employees also will be a useful factor for me when considering which businesses to support with my consumer and investment dollars.
I am aware that you are under intense pressure by business interests to weaken or abandon the rule. Do not give in. Instead, weigh your duty to protect investors and the American public against the self-serving interests of those seeking to undermine this rule.
Thank you for considering my comment,
Esther Diamondstone
Phoenix, AZ