FINRA adopts interim senior leader CE program under Rule 1240.03
Member firms may voluntarily enroll senior leaders in a two-year regulatory element continuing-education program effective upon filing on Oct. 29, 2026.
On October 29, 2026, FINRA filed a proposed rule change (Release No. 34-106797; File No. SR-FINRA-2026-023; FR Doc No. 2026-22561) to adopt FINRA Rule 1240.03. The filing is designated as a non-controversial change under Rule 19b-4(f)(6), making the rule effective upon receipt by the SEC.
The proposed Rule 1240.03 creates a Senior Leader Regulatory Element Interim Program that is voluntary for member firms. Senior leaders - defined as covered persons listed on a firm's Schedule A of Form BD, members of executive or management committees, or similarly situated affiliates - may receive the Regulatory Element continuing-education (CE) through their chief compliance officer or senior compliance officer, who may supplement the material. Participants must certify completion, and firms must retain certification for at least three years.
The Interim Program would operate for just over two full years and would automatically sunset at the end of that period unless further action is taken. FINRA will evaluate demand and effectiveness by collecting feedback from CCOs, participating senior leaders, and the CE Council.
Senior leaders who do not enroll in the Interim Program remain subject to the existing Regulatory Element CE requirements administered via FINRA's FinPro Gateway.
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