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Vinson & Elkins’ Quarterly Governance and Sustainability Updates – Summer 2025

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V&E Governance & Sustainability Update

June 9, 2025 • 1-minute read

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Welcome to Vinson & Elkins’ Governance and Sustainability Updates. Each quarter, our aim is to provide insights into notable developments in corporate governance, sustainability, and securities issues that could have an impact on you or your company.

To read the full report, click here.

Key Insights found throughout this issue include:

Shift in Federal Priorities:
President Trump’s second term has brought significant changes, including a focus on deregulation, scrutiny of DEI initiatives, and a shift away from climate priorities set by the previous administration.
Impact on DEI and Environmental Justice:
Executive orders have dismantled affirmative action and DEI policies, leading to legal challenges and uncertainty. Environmental Justice offices and programs have been terminated, impacting federal support for EJ initiatives.
Changes in Climate and Energy Policies:
The U.S. has withdrawn from the Paris Agreement, but 24 states have committed to its goals independently. There is a pause on disbursement of funds from the IRA and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, leading to legal challenges and uncertainty.
SEC and Corporate Governance Updates:
New SEC Chairman Paul Atkins has indicated a shift in priorities, including nixing CEO Pay Ratio disclosures and revisiting climate-related disclosure rules. The SEC’s new system, EDGAR Next, aims to enhance security and traceability of filings.
Board Diversity and Proxy Advisor Policies:
The Fifth Circuit vacated Nasdaq’s board diversity rule, leading to changes in proxy advisor policies and a relaxation of diversity expectations. ISS and Glass Lewis have updated their voting policies, reflecting the changing landscape.

This information is provided by Vinson & Elkins LLP for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended, nor should it be construed, as legal advice.

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