What is a key recommendation of the 2004 amendment to the Federal Sentencing Guidelines?

The correct choice highlights that a significant recommendation of the 2004 amendment to the Federal Sentencing Guidelines was to clearly articulate compliance obligations for organizations. This amendment aimed to encourage organizations to implement effective compliance programs and establish a culture of compliance within their operations. By defining what constitutes a compliance obligation, the guidelines helped organizations understand their responsibilities in preventing and detecting criminal conduct.

The emphasis on delineating compliance obligations underscored the importance of proactive measures to prevent fraud and misconduct, thereby fostering an environment that prioritizes ethical behavior and accountability. This shift not only aimed to improve corporate governance but also provided a framework that organizations could follow to mitigate their risk of legal violations.

In contrast to the correct answer, the other options do not align with the objectives of the amendment. Eliminating compliance training would undermine the fundamental goal of establishing a robust compliance system. Implementing strict punishment is not a primary focus; rather, the guidelines lean towards encouraging compliance and prevention. Lastly, advocating for less employee oversight would contradict the intention of promoting accountability and ethical behavior within organizations.