FINRA Proposes Extension of Temporary COVID-19 Related Amendments

FINRA proposed a rule change that would extend from April 30, 2021 to August 31, 2021 the expiration date for temporary amendments that (i) provide relief to FINRA staff from certain enforcement and procedural requirements and (ii) allow virtual hearings.

Specifically, the proposal would extend:

• SR-FINRA-2020-015, which provides temporary relief for FINRA staff from "timing, method of service and other procedural requirements"; and

• SR-FINRA-2020-027, which allows the Office of Hearing Officers and National Adjudicatory Council to conduct virtual hearings for (i) appeals of Membership Application Program decisions, (ii) disciplinary decisions, (iii) eligibility proceedings, and (iv) cease and desist orders.

Comments on the proposal must be submitted within 21 days of its publication in the Federal Register.