Political Engagement

ENGAGING WITH GOVERNMENT

As a responsible corporate citizen, Caterpillar participates in the public policy process, advocating for a broad range of issues that advance our strategy and purpose while providing value to shareholders and other stakeholders. From energy transition to infrastructure investments to skilled workforce development and more, we focus on policy areas that help our customers build a better, more sustainable world. 

2022 Caterpillar Lobbying Report:
The Purpose of Engagement

The report, which the company plans to issue annually, provides greater transparency and disclosure of the company’s U.S. political engagement strategy, including a description of the governance oversight and management of these activities. Caterpillar’s shareholders have demonstrated interest in more transparency and a better understanding of our political engagement strategy. We value their input and diverse perspectives and are implementing a number of key changes based on shareholder feedback. Our Values in Action, governing laws and strategy for profitable growth continue to guide how we act and manage, whom we engage with, and our areas of focus.

The report also outlines climate lobbying efforts focused on supporting Caterpillar’s customers during the energy transition, Caterpillar’s relationships with U.S. trade and industry associations, employee engagement in advocacy initiatives, and Caterpillar Inc. Political Action Committee governance. 

Current U.S. Disclosures

Our commitment to transparency and disclosure in our advocacy activities has long been recognized. As part of that commitment, numerous voluntary disclosures and links to filings related to our political engagements are below. Additionally, we are changing the reporting threshold for U.S. trade and industry association contributions. In previous years, Caterpillar reported membership contributions of $50,000 or more annually. For 2022 we are reducing the threshold to $25,000. In 2023, we will report all U.S. trade and industry association memberships biannually. You can find this information – and the percentage of 2022 membership dues used for federal lobbying as reported by each organization – in the Lobbying Report.

In the United States, in compliance with the Lobbying Disclosure Act, Caterpillar files a quarterly report that includes: 1) total federal lobbying expenditures, 2) the name of the specific piece of legislation or subject that was the topic of communication, 3) disclosure of Caterpillar individuals who qualify as lobbyists on behalf of Caterpillar and 4) identification of the legislative body or executive branch agency that was contacted. This report incorporates expenses associated with lobbying the federal government, including the portion of trade association dues associated with federal lobbying. The report can be found on the U.S. Senate Office of Public Records website or the U.S. House of Representatives Office of the Clerk website.

U.S. Footprint

Caterpillar has a presence around the world to support our global customers, but there’s no country where we employ more people than the United States. Learn more about Caterpillar's presence and engagement in each state.

View U.S. State Fact Sheets
Cat wheel loader on White House lawn
Cat wheel loader on White House lawn

Advocacy Outside the U.S.

Caterpillar's global reach and presence is unmatched in the industry.  Our government affairs teams in key global locations work to create a favorable legislative and policy environment to better serve our customers and increase shareholder value. While our advocacy strategies may differ depending on political systems and local laws, we are always guided by Our Values in Action, high ethical standards and our commitment to helping our customers build a better, more sustainable world.

In the European Union (EU), Caterpillar voluntarily participates in the Transparency Register operated by the European Parliament and the European Commission. Caterpillar discloses its engagement with policymakers in the EU regarding issues of interest to Caterpillar’s business and reports such information as its membership in trade associations and annual expenses associated with activities identified in the Register.

Visit EU Transparency Register
R1700 Battery Electric Underground Loader at work
R1700 Battery Electric Underground Loader at work

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