Public Statements & Remarks

Concurring Statement Regarding the Treatment of Petitions Seeking Grandfather Relief Pursuant to Section 723 of the Dodd-Frank Act for Trading Activity Done in Reliance Upon Section 2(h)(1)-(2)

Commissioner Scott D. O’Malia

September 10, 2010

I concur in the Commission’s decision to presently decline to grant relief under Section 723 of the Dodd-Frank Act to persons transacting business in exempt commodities in reliance upon Sections 2(h)(1)-(2) of the Commodity Exchange Act (the “Act”). While the Commission has chosen to decline to grant relief at this time, it is not restricted from using its authority to address and provide relief to such persons in the future. In an effort to proactively ensure the smoothest possible transition of these bilateral markets for transactions in exempt commodities into the new regulatory landscape, it is my hope that the Commission will revisit the issue at least ninety days prior to the Dodd-Frank Act effective date. The Commission remains committed to the efficient functioning of the markets in exempt commodities, and the path that we take in each rulemaking under the Dodd-Frank Act will only be enhanced by the comments we receive. Therefore, I urge all market participants who currently rely on Sections 2(h)(1)-(2) of the Act to help shape the new regulatory frontier by submitting their comments to the Commission.

Last Updated: September 10, 2010