The District of Columbia Stock Option Plan of Star States Corporation is an employee benefit plan offered by the company to its employees. This plan is designed to provide employees with the opportunity to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price. It grants employees the right to purchase a specified number of shares of the company's stock within a specified time frame. The Star States Corporation offers different types of stock option plans under the District of Columbia jurisdiction to cater to the diverse needs of its employees. These plans include: 1. Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan: This plan allows employees to purchase company stock at a preferential price. The option to purchase stock is not limited to specific eligibility requirements, and the income tax is incurred at the time of exercising the option. 2. Incentive Stock Option Plan: This plan is designed to provide additional employee incentives by granting them the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discounted price. To be eligible for this plan, employees must meet specific requirements set by the company and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The benefit of this plan is that employees may receive favorable tax treatment on the gains from stock sales. 3. Performance-Based Stock Option Plan: This plan is specifically designed for employees who meet pre-determined performance goals set by the company. Employees who achieve these goals are granted stock options as a form of recognition for their exceptional performance. The exercise price, vesting schedule, and other details are determined by the company. 4. Stock Appreciation Rights (SARS) Plan: This plan allows employees to benefit from the appreciation in the value of the company's stock without being required to purchase the stock itself. When the stock price rises, employees can exercise their SARS and receive compensation equal to the increase in stock value, either in cash or company stock. The District of Columbia Stock Option Plan of Star States Corporation is a valuable employee benefit that provides employees with a sense of ownership and the opportunity to share in the company's growth and success. It motivates employees to perform better and aligns their interests with that of the company's shareholders.