Stacey McEvoy, partner at Hogan Lovells, sat down for a video interview during Nareit’s REITwise: 2025 Law, Accounting & Finance Conference in San Antonio on March 25-27.
McEvoy discussed how companies can navigate the evolving legal and regulatory challenges surrounding sustainability and AI. She advised general counsels to begin with a compliance review of internal policies, particularly where eligibility may be tied to race or gender, in light of recent Supreme Court decisions.
McEvoy highlighted the importance of board-level conversations about a company’s values and culture before adjusting sustainability disclosures. “Consensus among board and management is important given the crosswinds and risks on this topic,” she said, noting that such discussions should also be clearly communicated to employees.
She also addressed how general counsels can help boards stay informed amid regulatory uncertainty. According to McEvoy, GCs should work with external advisors to provide regular legal updates and integrate emerging risks—like tariffs, AI, and diversity issues—into board-level education sessions.
McEvoy also noted that while AI is an exciting technological frontier, it must be approached with caution. “AI is out there…but it has to come with a degree of skepticism,” she said.