The SEC has published for comment Nasdaq’s rule proposal that Nasdaq listed companies have an internal audit function.  The rule proposal is as follows:

“Each Company must establish and maintain an internal audit function to provide management and the audit committee with ongoing assessments of the Company’s risk management processes and system of internal control. The Company may choose to outsource this function to a third party service provider other than its independent auditor. The audit committee must meet periodically with the internal auditors (or other personnel responsible for this function) and assist the Board in its oversight of the performance of this function. The audit committee should also discuss with the outside auditor the responsibilities, budget and staffing of the internal audit function.

A Company listed on Nasdaq on or before June 30, 2013, must establish an internal audit function by no later than December 31, 2013. A Company listed after June 30, 2013, must establish an internal audit function prior to listing.”

In its rule filing, Nasdaq notes the NYSE, in Listed Company Manual Section 303A.07(c), has a similar requirement.

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