Sarbanes-Oxley world continues to turn. And although many claim that it is spinning out of control, signs are beginning to indicate that a move to a more stable and rational environment is pending. Let me highlight just a few of the reasons for the roller coaster ride and some of the relief that is on the way.

Real or perceived drastic events result in drastic measures. The nine?month period that ended with the passage of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 was no exception. A quick look at the major headlines during that time tells the tale of a crisis in the making.

• Nov. 8, 2001 — Enron restates earnings for past five years, reports $586 million in losses
• March 27, 2002 — Adelphia says $2.3 billion borrowed by Rigas family not on books
• June 4, 2002 — Tyco CEO indicted on tax evasion charges
• June 12, 2002 –ImClone CEO Samuel Waksal arrested on insider trading charges
• June 25, 2002 — WorldCom admits to inflating earnings by $3.8 billion

[1] LocalTechWire: As the World Turns, Businesses Continue To Struggle With Impact of Sarbanes-Oxley