Lobbying Spending Disclosure – Marathon Petroleum Corp (2014)

Outcome: 47.7%

Whereas,
Lobbying exposes Marathon Petroleum Corporation(“MPC”) to risks that could affect its stated goals, objectives, and ultimately shareholder value, and
We rely on the information provided by MPC to evaluate goals and objectives, and we, therefore, have a strong interest in full disclosure of its lobbying to assess whether its lobbying is consistent with its expressed goals and in the best interests of shareholders and long-term value.
Resolved, shareholders request the Board to authorize the preparation of a report, updated annually, disclosing:
1. Company policy and procedures governing lobbying, both direct and indirect, and grassroots lobbying communications.
2. Payments by MPC used for (a) direct or indirect lobbying or (b) grassroots lobbying communications, in each case including the amount of the payment and the recipient.
3. MPC’s membership in and payments to any tax-exempt organization that writes and endorses model legislation.
4. Description of the decision making process and oversight by management and the Board for making payments described in sections 2 and 3 above.
For purposes of this proposal, a “grassroots lobbying communication” is a communication directed to the general public that (a) refers to specific legislation or regulation, (b) reflects a view on the legislation or regulation and (c) encourages the recipient of the communication to take action with respect to the legislation or regulation. “Indirect lobbying” is lobbying engaged in by a trade association or other organization of which MPCis a member.
Both “direct and indirect lobbying” and “grassroots lobbying communications” include efforts at the local, state and federal levels. The report shall be presented to the Audit Committee or other relevant Board committees and posted on MPC’s website.
Supporting Statement
As shareholders, we encourage transparency and accountability in the use of staff time and corporate funds to influence legislation and regulation both directly and indirectly. Absent a system of accountability, company assets could be used for objectives contrary to MPC’s long-term interests.
MPC has an interest in a number of high profile and controversial issues – such as the Alberta Tar Sands, waste from its Detroit refinery, and renewable fuel standards – that may have implications for its business and sound public policy.