Maryland Approval of Employee Stock Purchase Plan is a legal process that involves the state of Maryland reviewing and granting authorization for Charming Shoppes, Inc. to implement an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPN). This plan allows eligible employees to purchase company stock at a discounted price, usually through regular payroll deductions. The Maryland approval is crucial for Charming Shoppes, Inc. as it ensures compliance with state regulations and safeguards the interests of both the company and the employees participating in the ESPN. By obtaining this approval, Charming Shoppes, Inc. demonstrates its commitment to providing an attractive employee benefits program and fostering employee ownership. It is important to note that while Maryland Approval of Employee Stock Purchase Plan is a general term, there may be different variations or types of ESPN. These variations can include plan structures, eligibility criteria, contribution limits, and discount levels. Some common types of Maryland Approval of Employee Stock Purchase Plan of Charming Shoppes, Inc. could be: 1. Basic Employee Stock Purchase Plan: The basic ESPN typically allows employees to purchase company stock at a discounted price, calculated either through a fixed percentage or a formula based on market price. Eligible employees can contribute a specified portion of their salary to acquire company shares through regular payroll deductions. 2. Qualified Employee Stock Purchase Plan: A qualified ESPN meets specific criteria laid out by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), providing potential tax advantages for employees. It may have limitations on the maximum discount offered or the holding period for acquired shares. This type of ESPN typically involves the company seeking additional approval from the regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with federal tax laws. 3. Non-Qualified Employee Stock Purchase Plan: A non-qualified ESPN has more flexibility in terms of plan design but may not offer the same tax advantages as a qualified plan. It allows employees to purchase company stock at a discounted price, usually without any specific limitations on discount levels or holding periods. 4. Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): The Employee Stock Ownership Plan is a type of ESPN that establishes a trust to hold shares of company stock on behalf of employees. This plan structure allows employees to become partial owners of the company, potentially offering retirement benefits and increasing loyalty among employees. Finalizing the Maryland Approval of Employee Stock Purchase Plan of Charming Shoppes, Inc. requires thorough documentation and adherence to state-specific requirements. It is essential for Charming Shoppes, Inc. to consult legal professionals and ensure compliance with Maryland laws and regulations throughout the approval process.