Participating in the Political Process
Weyerhaeuser participates in the political process to help shape public policy and
legislation that have a direct effect on our company. This engagement is tied closely
to our business strategies and is an important way to build and protect our license
to operate. Our involvement includes coalition building, relationship building,
advocacy, political contributions and grass roots activities.
Weyerhaeuser's reputation and relationships with government officials are extremely
important assets, which contribute significantly to our success. Therefore, we are
committed to maintaining and enhancing strong relationships with government officials
through ethical, responsible and lawful actions.
Company Activities
Weyerhaeuser’s involvement in the political process reflects the company’s interests
and not those of individual officers or directors. Public policy and legislative
priorities are reviewed annually with senior business leaders as well as with the
Corporate Governance Committee of the board of directors.
Political contributions reflect one dimension of participation in the political
process. To ensure that we are in compliance with all applicable laws, Weyerhaeuser’s
political contributions are managed by Corporate Affairs, under a general delegation
of authority from the company’s general counsel. Prior approval for any contribution
must be given by the appropriate Corporate Affairs senior manager. No contribution
may be given in anticipation of or in return for an official act.
To advocate our position, the company relies on government affairs professionals,
assisted by key managers and subject-matter experts. Only authorized employees and
contract lobbyists may engage in lobbying activities, as defined by the appropriate
jurisdiction, on behalf of the company. Such persons must comply with all applicable
legal requirements.
All laws and regulations regarding in-kind contributions, use of corporate facilities
and resources, independent expenditures, and gifts and ethics laws must be stringently
followed. Employees may not offer, promise or give anything of value to any government
official, employee, agent or other intermediary (either domestically or internationally)
to influence the exercise of government duties.
No pressure in any form may be directed toward any employee to make any personal
political contributions or to support or oppose any ballot measure, political party
or the candidacy of any person.
Employee Activities
Weyerhaeuser strongly supports employee involvement in political affairs and encourages
and supports lawful individual activities that involve political parties, candidates
or issues.
Employees may communicate personal opinions to government officials. However, Weyerhaeuser
employees may not use company stationery, the Weyerhaeuser name, work titles or
other company resources, such as electronic media, copiers, phones or fax machines,
to express personal opinions to government officials or to promote candidates. In
addition, personal political contributions may not be reimbursed.
Weyerhaeuser encourages employees to register and exercise their right to vote.
Weyerhaeuser also may ask employees to communicate with public officials through
the company website on important company issues.
Weyerhaeuser employees must comply with all laws, regulations and company policies
regarding gifts to, and entertainment of, government officials.
