The integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into investment decision-making is an important tool for investors to consider financially relevant information. Actions at the federal and state-level to attempt to block consideration of ESG factors threaten investors and retirement savers who are depending on long-term financial returns.

In advance of a hearing in the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, “ESG Part I: An Examination of Environmental, Social, and Governance Practices with Attorneys General,” the U.S. Impact Investing Alliance emphasized its support for protecting the rights of investors to access ESG tools and strategies with Committee leaders.

"Whether someone is saving for their retirement, their child’s education or just a rainy day, we all want access to the best information available before we make a financial decision,” said Fran Seegull, President of the Alliance. “Professional investors are increasingly looking at ESG factors as essential to understanding the potential risks and returns of an investment. Any effort to restrict access to financially relevant ESG information harms investors, harms businesses and threatens America's economic competitiveness. Put simply, to ignore such vital information would be a violation of asset managers' fiduciary duties,” Seegull continued.

The Alliance looks forward to continuing to engage with field and policy leaders on these important issues.