FinCEN Seeks Comments on Changes to AML Program Regulations

The Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network is seeking comments on potential changes to regulations on anti-money laundering programs, a notice released Sept. 16 said. The changes would require financial institutions to establish an “effective and reasonably designed” anti-money laundering program and would specify how that is defined. FinCEN said those types of programs assess and manage risks “as informed by a financial institution’s risk assessment” and anti-money laundering priorities “to be issued” by FinCEN. The changes would also outline reporting requirements for “information with a high degree of usefulness to government authorities.” The agency said the effort is intended to “modernize” its regulatory regime to address the “evolving threats of illicit finance.” Comments are due Nov. 16.