Sunset provision

A sunset provision is a contract clause that sets an expiration date for certain terms or the entire agreement unless expressly renewed or extended by all parties involved. This clause is often used to ensure that outdated or unnecessary stipulations do not persist indefinitely, prompting periodic review and reconsideration.

5 Sunset provision examples

  • Description
    Sunset Provision. Each outstanding share of Class B Common Stock shall automatically, without further action by the Corporation or the holder thereof, convert into one (1) fully paid and nonassessable share of Class A Common Stock on December 22, 2028.
    Document
    Hyperfine, Inc. (HYPR)
  • Description
    The Company respectfully advises the Staff that the time-based sunset provision of seven (7) years was chosen as the Company believes a seven (7) year period is a reasonably limited period of time and aligns with the voting policies and recommendations of proxy advisory firms and numerous institutional investors.
    Document
    Sprout Social, Inc. (SPT)
  • Description
    The Restated Charter includes a sunset provision pursuant to which all of the outstanding Class A Common Stock will automatically convert to Common Stock if: (a) less than 4,300,000 shares of Class A Common Stock, in the aggregate, are beneficially owned by Immediate Family Members and/or Permitted Transferees, or (b) if less than 4,600,000 shares of Class A Common Stock and Common Stock, in the aggregate, are beneficially owned by Immediate Family Members and/or Permitted Transferees.
    Document
    CAL-MAINE FOODS INC (CALM)
  • Description
    Shareholder protection mechanisms (sunset provision or commitment to cause expiration of the protective amendment upon exhaustion or expiration of the NOL);
    Document
    MUTUAL FUND SERIES TRUST
  • Description
    Bankruptcy and Sunset Provision. Notwithstanding any other provision herein to the contrary, if any payment received by Bank under this Note is rescinded, avoided or for any reason returned by Bank because of any adverse claim or threatened action by a bankruptcy trustee or otherwise, the returned payment shall remain payable as an obligation of all parties liable under this Note, including but not limited to any guarantors.
    Document
    VictoryBase Corp

What is a Sunset Provision?

A Sunset Provision is a clause within a contract, law, or regulation that sets an expiration date for the provision itself, typically unless further legislative action is taken to extend it. This clause ensures that the stipulation is only in effect for a limited time unless renewed or made permanent. The primary purpose is to provide a built-in mechanism for reevaluation and revision.

When should I use a Sunset Provision?

Sunset provisions are used in various contexts to ensure periodic review and adjustment. Consider using a sunset provision when:

  • Uncertainty exists: If the long-term effectiveness or necessity of a particular law, regulation, or contractual obligation is uncertain.
  • Technology and Circumstances Evolve: In areas with rapid change, where laws may need frequent updating to remain relevant.
  • Governance and Accountability: To ensure legislative bodies or parties routinely assess and confirm the continued relevance and effectiveness of a provision.
  • Preventing Perpetuity: To avoid the indefinite existence of a law or contract that should be temporary by design.

How do I write a Sunset Provision?

To write a sunset provision, consider the following components:

  1. Objective: Clearly state the purpose of the sunset provision within the context of the document.
  2. Duration: Specify the exact time frame in which the provision will be effective.
  3. Review Process: Outline the procedure for reviewing the provision when the sunset date approaches.
  4. Renewal Conditions: Detail any conditions under which the provision may be extended or renewed.

Example

This section shall expire five years from the date of enactment unless extended by legislative action. A review committee shall report on the effectiveness and necessity of the provision one year prior to expiration.

Which contracts typically contain a Sunset Provision?

Sunset provisions are commonly found in a variety of contracts and legislative documents, including:

  • Legislation: Laws that address issues likely to evolve over time or need regular evaluation.
  • Commercial Contracts: Agreements involving technology or industries prone to rapid changes.
  • Government Policies: Policies or regulations with potentially significant socio-economic impacts.
  • Interim Measures: Temporary measures pending the establishment of a permanent solution.

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More Clauses from the Library

Dive deeper into the world of clauses and learn more about these other clauses that are used in real contracts.

Supersedes previous agreements

The "Supersedes Previous Agreements" clause indicates that the current contract nullifies all prior agreements or understandings, whether written or verbal, related to the same subject matter. This ensures that only the terms and conditions set forth in the new contract are binding between the parties involved.

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Supersedes prior agreements

The "Supersedes Prior Agreements" clause states that the current contract invalidates and replaces all previous agreements, understandings, or communications between the parties related to the subject matter. Its purpose is to ensure that the terms in the existing contract are the authoritative and exclusive terms governing the relationship, preventing conflicts with prior arrangements.

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Superseding agreement

A superseding agreement clause is a contractual provision that nullifies and replaces all prior agreements, understandings, or negotiations related to the subject matter of the contract. It ensures that the current contract is the complete and exclusive agreement between the parties, overriding any conflicting terms from previous documents.

12 example clauses