Monsanto named Trendsetter on 2017 CPA-Zicklin Index for Political Disclosures

Monsanto Company was recognized recently as a “Trendsetter” by the 2017 CPA-Zicklin Index of Corporate Political Disclosure and Accountability. The CPA-Zicklin Index evaluates companies in the S&P 500 on transparency and accountability practices in political spending. Monsanto is the only agriculture organization included in the Trendsetter category.

“We believe it is the responsibility of leaders and good corporate citizens to enhance transparency and accountability for political activity,” said David Snively, executive vice president, secretary and general counsel for Monsanto and chairman of the company’s Good Government Fund. “We’re pleased to be recognized for transparency and responsible approach which assures accountability to our shareholders and stakeholders.”

As noted on the company website, Monsanto is committed to participating constructively and transparently in the political process, as such participation is essential to the company’s long-term success. Monsanto’s participation in the U.S. political process includes contributions to political candidates in a manner that is compliant with all applicable federal and state laws and reporting requirements. All political contributions are made without regard to the private political preferences of company executives and include consideration of Monsanto’s interests in legislative or policy-related activity, company facilities and employees in the state, and local political factors.

This marks the third year that the CPA-Zicklin Index evaluated the transparency and accountability practices for the entire S&P 500. Companies were ranked based on several key indicators including corporate political disclosure and oversight, spending restrictions, indirect spending and independent expenditures. The Center for Political Accountability releases its index in conjunction with the Carol and Lawrence Zicklin Center for Business Ethics Research at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. The full CPA-Zicklin Index report is available at www.politicalaccountability.net.