SEC Votes to End Defense of Climate Disclosure Rules (03/27/25)

On March 27, 2025, the SEC voted 2-1 to end its defense of rules that were adopted in March 2024 requiring enhancement and standardization of climate-related disclosures. The prior rulemaking was championed by former Chairman Gary Gensler and Democratic Commissioners, who argued it was necessary to provide investors with the information they need to make informed decisions, while Republican Commissioners dissented, arguing the rule was likely to overwhelm investors. While the decision does not directly relate to the pending rules for investment advisers and investment companies that would require enhanced disclosures about ESG investment practices, it does suggest that these are unlikely to move forward under the current Commission.