From: RPit12207@aol.com
Sent: Monday, October 28, 2002 4:20 PM
To: rule-comments@sec.gov
Subject: Reference File No. S7-36-02
I am writing in support of the SEC's proposed rule to require mutual fund 
companies to disclose how they vote on corporate proxy resolutions. 

The recent wave of corporate scandals has provided ample evidence that 
corporate America needs to afford investors greater transparency, 
responsibility and accountability.  It is estimated that mutual funds, 
which represent about 90 million Americans, account for 20 percent of proxy 
votes at corporate shareholder meetings. As such, mutual funds can play a 
major role in insisting on more responsible behavior on the part of publicly 
traded companies. 

In the absence of public disclosure of proxy policies and proxy voting records, 
there is no way for us to know whether the manager of our mutual fund is acting 
in a manner that reflects our wishes.  As mutual fund shareholders, we want to 
know how our mutual fund is voting on issues related to executive pay, board 
make-up and independence, global warming and other environmental issues, worker 
rights, gender discrimination and other issues that matter to us.  We want 
potential conflicts of interest exposed.  We want to know what principles will 
guide the mutual fund in determining how it votes in corporate proxy contests, 
and as owners, we would like to know how our proxy is being voted. 

We urge the SEC to stand up for investors and for corporate accountability, and 
to vote in favor of the proposed proxy voting rule. 

Your consideration of our request is very much appreciated.  Thank you! 

D. Ray and Vickie G. Pittman 
11312 Field Circle 
Spotsylvania, Virginia 22553-4636