# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0002076317
**File Stem:** 0001193125-25-166406
**Filing Date:** 2025-7
**Character Count:** 439951
**Document Hash:** 33da099edccd3569dbaef0f778205937
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001193125-25-166406.hdr.sgml**: 20250728

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001193125-25-166406

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: POSASR

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 22

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20250728

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20250728

**EFFECTIVENESS DATE**: 20250728

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** ACUITY INC. (DE)
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001144215
- **STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:** ELECTRIC LIGHTING & WIRING EQUIPMENT [3640]
- **ORGANIZATION NAME:** 04 Manufacturing
- **EIN:** 582632672
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** DE
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 0831

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** POSASR
- **SEC ACT:** 1933 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 333-275184
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251155658

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1170 PEACHTREE STREET NE
- **STREET 2:** SUITE 1200
- **CITY:** ATLANTA
- **STATE:** GA
- **ZIP:** 30309
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 404-853-1400

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1170 PEACHTREE STREET NE
- **STREET 2:** SUITE 1200
- **CITY:** ATLANTA
- **STATE:** GA
- **ZIP:** 30309

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** ACUITY BRANDS INC
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20011108

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** L&C SPINCO INC
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20010629
**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** QSC, LLC
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0002076387

**ORGANIZATION NAME:**
- **EIN:** 953412527
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** CA
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 0831

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** POSASR
- **SEC ACT:** 1933 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 333-275184-03
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251155659

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1170 PEACHTREE STREET, N.E.
- **STREET 2:** SUITE 1200
- **CITY:** ATLANTA
- **STATE:** GA
- **ZIP:** 30309
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** (404) 853-1400

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1170 PEACHTREE STREET, N.E.
- **STREET 2:** SUITE 1200
- **CITY:** ATLANTA
- **STATE:** GA
- **ZIP:** 30309
**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc.
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0002076317

**ORGANIZATION NAME:**
- **EIN:** 311832408
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** DE
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 0831

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** POSASR
- **SEC ACT:** 1933 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 333-275184-04
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251155660

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1170 PEACHTREE STREET, N.E.
- **STREET 2:** SUITE 1200
- **CITY:** ATLANTA
- **STATE:** GA
- **ZIP:** 30309
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** (404) 853-1400

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1170 PEACHTREE STREET, N.E.
- **STREET 2:** SUITE 1200
- **CITY:** ATLANTA
- **STATE:** GA
- **ZIP:** 30309
**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** ABL IP Holding LLC
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001495450
- **STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:** ELECTRIC LIGHTING & WIRING EQUIPMENT [3640]
- **ORGANIZATION NAME:** 04 Manufacturing
- **EIN:** 000000000
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** GA
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 0831

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** POSASR
- **SEC ACT:** 1933 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 333-275184-01
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251155661

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** ONE LITHONIA WAY
- **CITY:** CONYERS
- **STATE:** GA
- **ZIP:** 30012
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 770-922-9000

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** ONE LITHONIA WAY
- **CITY:** CONYERS
- **STATE:** GA
- **ZIP:** 30012
**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc.
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001495451
- **STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:** ELECTRIC LIGHTING & WIRING EQUIPMENT [3640]
- **ORGANIZATION NAME:** 04 Manufacturing
- **EIN:** 582633371
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** DE
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 0831

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** POSASR
- **SEC ACT:** 1933 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 333-275184-02
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251155662

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** ONE LITHONIA WAY
- **CITY:** CONYERS
- **STATE:** GA
- **ZIP:** 30012
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 770-922-9000

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** ONE LITHONIA WAY
- **CITY:** CONYERS
- **STATE:** GA
- **ZIP:** 30012

##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 28, 2025** 

**Registration No. 333-275184** 

**UNITED STATES** 

**SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION** 

**Washington, D.C. 20549** 

**POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO** 

**FORM S-3** 

**REGISTRATION STATEMENT** 

***UNDER***

***THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933***

## Acuity Inc.<sup>\*</sup>
**\* and each of the additional registrants listed on the next page** 

**(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)** 

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Delaware** | **58-2632672** |
| **(State or other jurisdiction of**<br> **incorporation or organization)** | **(I.R.S. Employer**<br> **Identification No.)** |

---

**1170 Peachtree Street, N.E.** 

**Suite 1200** 

**Atlanta, Georgia 30309** 

**(404) 853-1400** 

**(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of Registrant's principal executive offices)** 

**Barry R. Goldman** 

**Senior Vice President and General Counsel** 

**Acuity Inc.** 

**1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200** 

**Atlanta, Georgia 30309** 

**(404) 853-1400** 

**(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)** 

***with copies to:***

**Judith Kitano** 

**Baker & McKenzie LLP** 

**10250 Constellation Boulevard** 

**Suite 1850** 

**Los Angeles, California 90067** 

**(310) 201-4728** 

**Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public:** From time to time after the effective date of this Registration Statement.

If the only securities being registered on this Form are being offered pursuant to dividend or reinvestment plans, please check the following box: ☐

If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, other than securities offered only in connection with dividend or interest reinvestment plans, check the following box: ☒

If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ☐

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ☐

If this Form is a registration statement pursuant to General Instruction I.D. or a post-effective amendment thereto that shall become effective upon filing with the Commission pursuant to Rule 462(e) under the Securities Act, check the following box. ☒

If this Form is a post-effective amendment to a registration statement filed pursuant to General Instruction I.D. filed to register additional securities or additional classes of securities pursuant to Rule 413(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box. ☒

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Large accelerated filer | ☒ | Accelerated filer | ☐ |
| Non-accelerated filer | ☐ | Smaller reporting company | ☐ |
|  |  | Emerging growth company | ☐ |

---

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act. ☐

------

##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**TABLE OF CO-REGISTRANTS**

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Exact name of Registrant\*** | **Jurisdiction of Formation** | **I.R.S. Employer<br>Identification No.** |
| Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. | Delaware | 58-2633371 |
| Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc. | Delaware | 31-1832408 |
| QSC, LLC | California | 95-3412527 |
| ABL IP Holding LLC | Georgia | 93-4672136 |

---

\* The address for each of the additional registrants is c/o Acuity Inc., 1170 Peachtree Street, N.E. Suite 1200, Atlanta, Georgia 30309.

------

##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**EXPLANATORY NOTE** 

This Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-3 (Registration No. 333-275184) (the "Registration Statement") of Acuity Inc. (f/k/a Acuity Brands, Inc.), Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. and ABL IP Holding LLC is being filed for the following purposes:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) to add Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc., a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Acuity Inc., and QSC, LLC, a direct
wholly owned subsidiary of Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc., as co-registrants on the Registration Statement;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) to add the offering of debt securities of Acuity Inc., which may be guaranteed by Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc.,
ABL IP Holding LLC, Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc. and QSC, LLC;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) to add an additional prospectus relating to debt securities of Acuity Inc. as part of this Registration
Statement; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) to update certain information contained in the Registration Statement with respect to the above.

No changes or additions are being made hereby to the prospectus that was filed as part of the Registration Statement on October 26, 2023. Accordingly, such prospectus is not being re-filed as part as part of this Post-Effective Amendment No. 1.

The Registration Statement was originally filed on October 26, 2023 under the name Acuity Brands, Inc. Acuity Brands, Inc. changed its name to Acuity Inc. on March 26, 2025. This Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 shall become effective immediately upon filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

------

##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
![LOGO](g87918g05a05.jpg)

## ACUITY INC.
**Debt Securities** 

## ACUITY BRANDS LIGHTING, INC.

## ACUITY INTELLIGENT SPACES INC.

## QSC, LLC

## ABL IP HOLDING LLC
**Guarantees of the Debt Securities of Acuity Inc.** 

Acuity Inc. may offer and sell debt securities from time to time in amounts, at prices and on terms that we will determine at the time of one or more offerings. Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc., QSC, LLC and ABL IP Holding LLC each may guarantee such debt securities, to the extent and on the terms set forth in this prospectus and in the applicable prospectus supplement to this prospectus.

This prospectus provides you with a general description of the securities we may offer. Each time we offer or sell securities pursuant to this prospectus, we will provide a prospectus supplement that will contain specific information about the terms of the debt securities and, if applicable, any guarantees being offered and the specific manner in which we will offer the securities. The prospectus supplement may also add, update or change information contained in this prospectus. You should read this prospectus and the applicable prospectus supplement together with the documents incorporated by reference in this prospectus and the applicable prospectus supplement carefully before you decide to invest in any of our securities.

The securities may be offered and sold on a continuous or delayed basis to or through underwriters, brokers, dealers or agents as designated from time to time, or directly to one or more other purchasers or through a combination of such methods. See "Plan of Distribution." If any underwriters, dealers or agents are involved in the sale of any of the securities, their names, and any applicable purchase price, fee, commission or discount arrangements between or among them, will be set forth, or will be calculable from the information set forth, in the applicable prospectus supplement.

This prospectus may not be used to offer and sell securities unless accompanied by a prospectus supplement.

***You should carefully consider the [risk factors](#toc87918_6) referred to on page 1 of this prospectus, in any applicable prospectus supplement and in the documents incorporated by reference in this prospectus and the applicable prospectus supplement before you invest in our securities.***

***Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state or other securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.***

**The date of this prospectus is July 28, 2025** 

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**TABLE OF CONTENTS** 

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
|  | **Page** |
|  [ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS](#toc87918_1) | ii |
|  [WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION](#toc87918_2) | ii |
|  [INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN INFORMATION BY REFERENCE](#toc87918_3) | ii |
|  [FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS](#toc87918_4) | iii |
|  [THE COMPANY](#toc87918_5) | 1 |
|  [RISK FACTORS](#toc87918_6) | 1 |
|  [USE OF PROCEEDS](#toc87918_7) | 2 |
|  [DESCRIPTION OF DEBT SECURITIES](#toc87918_8) | 2 |
|  [PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION](#toc87918_9) | 10 |
|  [VALIDITY OF THE SECURITIES](#toc87918_10) | 12 |
|  [EXPERTS](#toc87918_11) | 12 |

---

Unless the context otherwise requires or as otherwise expressly stated, references in this prospectus to "Acuity," the "Company," "we," "us" and "our" and similar terms refer to Acuity Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.

i

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS** 

This prospectus is a part of an automatic shelf registration statement that we filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") as a "well-known seasoned issuer" as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), using a "shelf" registration process. Under this shelf registration process, we may sell any combination of the securities described in this prospectus in one or more offerings from time to time.

Each time we offer or sell securities pursuant to this prospectus, we will provide a prospectus supplement or other type of offering document or supplement (together referred to herein as a "prospectus supplement") that will contain specific information about the terms of that offering. The prospectus supplement may also add, update or change information contained in this prospectus. Therefore, if there is any inconsistency between the information contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus and the prospectus supplement, you should rely on the information in the prospectus supplement (including any information incorporated by reference therein). You should read this prospectus and the applicable prospectus supplement together with the additional information described under the heading "Where You Can Find More Information."

The registration statement that contains this prospectus, including the exhibits to the registration statement and the documents incorporated by reference herein, contain additional information about us and the securities offered under this prospectus. That registration statement can be read at the SEC website mentioned under the headings "Where You Can Find More Information" and "Incorporation of Certain Information by Reference."

**WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION** 

We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. This prospectus, which forms a part of the registration statement, does not contain all the information that is included in the registration statement. Any statements made in this prospectus concerning the provisions of legal documents are not necessarily complete and you should read the documents that are filed as exhibits to the registration statement or otherwise filed with the SEC for a more complete understanding of the document or matter. Our SEC filings are available to the public over the Internet at the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Our SEC filings are also available on our website at https://investors.acuityinc.com/financials/sec-filings. You may access our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed pursuant to Sections 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act") with the SEC free of charge at our website as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC.

Except for the information incorporated by reference as noted below, our website and the information contained on that site, or connected to that site, are not incorporated into and are not a part of this prospectus.

**INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN INFORMATION BY REFERENCE** 

The SEC allows us to "incorporate by reference" the information we file with them, which means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents and those documents will be considered part of this prospectus. Information that we file later with the SEC will automatically update and supersede this information.

The documents listed below and any future filings we make with the SEC under Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act (other than portions of these documents deemed to be "furnished" or not deemed to be "filed," including the portions of these documents that are either (1) described in paragraphs (d)(1), (d)(2), (d)(3) or (e)(5) of Item 407 of Regulation S-K promulgated by the SEC or (2) furnished under Item 2.02 or Item 7.01 of

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
a Current Report on Form 8-K, including any exhibits included with such Items) prior to the termination of any offering of securities offered by this prospectus are incorporated by reference herein:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Our Annual Report on [Form 10-K](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000114421524000085/ayi-20240831.htm) , for the year ended August 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on October 28, 2024;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended
November 30, 2024, February 28, 2025 and May 
31, 2025, filed with the SEC on [January 8, 2025](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000114421525000008/ayi-20241130.htm) , [April 3, 2025](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000114421525000043/ayi-20250228.htm) and [June 26, 2025](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000114421525000059/ayi-20250531.htm) , respectively; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Our Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on [November 27, 2024](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312524266224/d846074d8k.htm) , [January 6, 2025](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312525002182/d908962d8k.htm) , [January 24, 2025](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000114421525000013/ayi-20250122.htm) , [February 13, 2025](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000114421525000032/ayi-20250210.htm) and [March 12, 2025](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/../../../ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312525052542/d931430d8k.htm) .

You may request a copy of these filings (other than an exhibit to a filing unless that exhibit is specifically incorporated by reference into that filing), at no cost, by writing or calling us at the following address:

Acuity Inc.

Attn: Corporate Secretary

1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200

Atlanta, Georgia 30309

(404) 853-1400

**We have not authorized anyone to provide any information other than that contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus and any applicable prospectus supplement. We do not take any responsibility for, and can provide no assurance as to the reliability of, any other information that others may give you. We are only offering these securities in jurisdictions where the offer and sale is permitted. You should not assume that the information in this prospectus is accurate as of any date other than the date on the front of this document and that any information incorporated by reference herein is accurate only as of the date of the document containing such information.** 

**FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS** 

This prospectus, any accompanying prospectus supplement and the documents incorporated by reference herein and therein may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Act"). Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that describe or relate to the Company's plans, initiatives, projections, vision, goals, targets, commitments, expectations, objectives, prospects, strategies, or financial outlook, and the assumptions underlying or relating thereto. In some cases, we may use words such as "expect," "believe," "intend," "anticipate," "estimate," "forecast," "indicate," "project," "predict," "plan," "may," "will," "could," "should," "would," "potential," and words of similar meaning, as well as other words or expressions referencing future events, conditions, or circumstances, to identify forward-looking statements. We intend these forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Act. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Our forward-looking statements are based on our current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions, which may not prove to be accurate, and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, assumptions, and other important factors, many of which are outside of our control and any of which could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are discussed in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent annual report on Form 10-K (including, but not limited to, the sections titled "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations"), quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and current reports on Form 8-K. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made. This prospectus is not comprehensive, and for that reason should be read in conjunction with such filings. You are cautioned not to

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect any events or circumstances after the date they were made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. You should read this prospectus, any accompanying prospectus supplement and the documents that are referenced and which have been incorporated by reference herein and therein, completely and with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. All forward-looking statements are qualified by these cautionary statements.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**THE COMPANY** 

***Acuity Inc.***

Acuity Inc. is a market-leading industrial technology company. Effective March 26, 2025, we changed our corporate name from Acuity Brands, Inc. to Acuity Inc. We use technology to solve problems in spaces, light, and more things to come. Through our two business segments, Acuity Brands Lighting and Acuity Intelligent Spaces, we design, manufacture, and bring to market products and services that make a valuable difference in people's lives. We achieve growth through the development of innovative new products and services, including lighting, lighting controls, building management solutions, and an audio, video and control platform. We focus on customer outcomes and drive growth and productivity to increase market share and deliver superior returns. We look to aggressively deploy capital to grow the business and to enter attractive new verticals.

Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "AYI." Our principal executive offices are located at 1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200, Atlanta, Georgia 30309, and our telephone number is (404) 853-1400. We maintain a website at www.acuityinc.com. Information that you may find on this website is not part of or incorporated into this prospectus or any prospectus supplement.

Additional information about us is included in our reports and other documents incorporated by reference in this prospectus. See "Incorporation of Certain Documents by Reference."

***Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc.***

Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. is a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of Acuity Inc. Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. is a Delaware corporation with principal executive offices located at 1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200, Atlanta, Georgia 30309, and its telephone number is (404) 853-1400.

***Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc.***

Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc. is a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of Acuity Inc. Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc. is a Delaware corporation with principal executive offices located at 1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200, Atlanta, Georgia 30309, and its telephone number is (404) 853-1400.

***QSC, LLC***

QSC, LLC is a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc. QSC, LLC is a California limited liability corporation with principal executive offices located at 1675 MacArthur Blvd., Costa Mesa, California 92626, and its telephone number is (404) 853-1400.

***ABL IP Holding LLC***

ABL IP Holding LLC is a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. ABL IP Holding LLC is a Georgia limited liability corporation with principal executive offices located at 1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200, Atlanta, Georgia 30309, and its telephone number is (404) 853-1400.

**RISK FACTORS** 

Investing in our securities involves risk. Before you decide whether to purchase any of our securities, in addition to the other information, documents, or reports included in or incorporated by reference into this prospectus and any accompanying prospectus supplement or other offering materials, you should carefully consider the risk factors in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in any prospectus supplement as well as our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and the other reports we file the SEC, which are incorporated by reference

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
into this prospectus and any prospectus supplement in their entirety, as the same may be amended, supplemented, or superseded from time to time by our filings under the Exchange Act. For more information, see the section entitled "Where You Can Find More Information." The risks and uncertainties described in our SEC filings are not the only ones facing us. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us, or that we currently see as immaterial, may also harm our business. If any such risks and uncertainties actually occur, our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and prospects could be materially and adversely affected, the market price of our securities could decline, and you could lose all or part of your investment.

**USE OF PROCEEDS** 

Unless we state otherwise in the applicable prospectus supplement, we intend to use the net proceeds from the sale of the securities for general corporate purposes.

**DESCRIPTION OF DEBT SECURITIES** 

The following description of the terms of the debt securities sets forth certain general terms and provisions of the debt securities and guarantees thereof, if any, to which any prospectus supplement may relate. The particular terms of any debt securities offered and guarantees thereof, if any, and the extent, if any, to which such general provisions may apply to such offered securities will be described in the prospectus supplement relating to such offered securities. This prospectus and any accompanying prospectus supplement contain the material terms of the securities to be offered. In this section, "Description of Debt Securities," the terms the "Company," "we," "us" and "our" refer to Acuity Inc. only and not to any of its subsidiaries.

The debt securities are to be issued under the indenture (the "Indenture"), dated as of July 28, 2025, between (i) the Company, (ii) Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc., QSC, LLC and ABL IP Holding LLC (collectively, the "Guarantors") and (iii) U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as Trustee (the "Trustee"). In addition, the Indenture may be supplemented and amended as necessary to set forth the terms of the debt securities issued under the indenture. The Indenture has been filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part. The following summary of certain general provisions of the Indenture and the debt securities does not purport to be complete and is subject to, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to, the provisions of the Indenture, including any amendments or supplements and the definitions therein of certain terms. Unless otherwise defined herein, all capitalized terms in this section have the definitions ascribed to such terms in the Indenture. The terms of any supplemental indenture entered into or officer's certificate delivered in connection with a particular issuance of debt securities will be described in the prospectus supplement relating to such offered debt securities.

References to "holders" in this section mean those who own debt securities registered in their own names, on the books that we or the applicable trustee maintain for this purpose, and not those who own beneficial interests in debt securities registered in street name or in debt securities issued in book-entry form through one or more depositaries.

**General** 

The Indenture does not limit the aggregate principal amount of debt securities that may be issued thereunder. The debt securities may be issued from time to time in one or more series. Unless otherwise indicated in the prospectus supplement relating thereto, the debt securities will be unsecured and will rank *pari passu* with all other existing and future unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness of the Company. Accordingly, your ownership of debt securities means you are one of our unsecured creditors. The Indenture does not limit the amount of other indebtedness or securities that may be issued by the Company.

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Debt securities of a series will be issued in registered form ("Registered Securities") as specified in the terms of the series. Debt securities of a series may be issued in whole or in part in the form of one or more global securities ("Global Securities") registered in the name of a depository or its nominee and, in such case, beneficial interests in the Global Securities will be shown on, and transfers thereof will be effected only through, records maintained by the designated depository and its participants.

Reference is made to the prospectus supplement relating to the particular series of debt securities offered thereby for the terms of the offered debt securities, including:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the title of the debt securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the aggregate principal amount;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the issue price expressed as a percentage of the aggregate principal amount;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the date or dates of maturity or the method of determination thereof;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the interest rate or rates (which may be fixed or floating) per annum, if any, or the method by which such
interest rate or rates will be determined;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the date or dates any interest will commence accruing and be payable and the record dates for any interest
payments;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the place or places where principal and any interest or premium will be paid;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• if applicable, the identity of the Guarantors and the terms of the guarantees with respect to the debt
securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the dates and redemption prices relating to any optional or mandatory redemption and other terms and conditions
of any optional or mandatory redemptions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• any optional or mandatory sinking fund or analogous provisions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the denominations of the debt securities if other than denominations of $2,000 and any higher integral multiples
of $1,000;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the portion of the principal amount payable on declaration of acceleration of maturity or provable in bankruptcy,
if other than the principal amount;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• whether and under what circumstances any additional amounts with respect to the debt securities will be payable;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• any paying agents, transfer agents, registrars or other agents for a series of debt securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the currency or currencies, including composite currencies, of payment of the principal of (and premium, if any)
and interest (if any) on the debt securities if other than the currency of the United States of America;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• if applicable, the terms and conditions upon which the debt securities may be repayable prior to final maturity
at the option of the holder thereof (which option may be conditional);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• if the principal of (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, are to be payable, at the election of the Company
or any holder thereof, in a currency other than that in which the debt securities are stated to be payable, the period or periods within which, and the terms and conditions on which, such election may be made;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• if the debt securities are to be denominated in a currency or currencies, including composite currencies, other
than the currency of the United States of America, the equivalent price in the currency of the United States of America for purposes of determining the voting rights of holders of the debt securities as outstanding securities under the Indenture;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• if the amount of payments of principal of (and premium, if any), or portions thereof, or interest, if any, on the
debt securities may be determined with reference to an index, formula or other method, the manner of determining such amounts;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• whether such debt securities are to be issued in temporary or permanent global form;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• any restrictions or other provisions relating to the transfer or exchange of the debt securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the application, if any, of certain provisions of the Indenture relating to defeasance and discharge, and related
conditions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• any events of default, if not set forth in the Indenture;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• any restrictive covenants or other material terms relating thereto which may not be inconsistent with the
Indenture; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• any applicable material United States federal income tax consequences.

Unless otherwise indicated in the prospectus supplement relating thereto, principal (and premium, if any) and interest will be payable and the Registered Securities will be transferable at the office or agency maintained by us for such purpose. Payment of principal (and premium, if any) and interest on Global Securities registered in the name of or held by the depository or its nominee will be made in immediately available funds to the depository or its nominee, as the case may be, as the registered holder of such Global Security. If any of the debt securities are no longer represented by a Global Security, payment of interest on Registered Securities may, at our option, be made by check mailed directly to holders at their registered addresses. See "—Forms of Debt Securities" below. No service charge will be made for any transfer or exchange of the debt securities, but the Company may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge payable in connection therewith.

One or more series of the debt securities may be issued as discounted debt securities (bearing no interest or interest at a rate which at the time of issuance is below market rates) to be sold at a substantial discount below their stated principal amount. Material United States federal income tax consequences and other special considerations applicable to any such discounted debt securities will be described in the prospectus supplement relating thereto.

The Company may at any time purchase debt securities at any price in the open market or otherwise. Debt securities so purchased by the Company may, at its sole option, be held, resold or surrendered to the Trustee for cancellation.

**Covenants** 

Unless otherwise specified in any prospectus supplement, the Indenture will not contain any covenants that (i) limit the amount of indebtedness (including secured indebtedness) or lease obligations that may be incurred by the Company and its subsidiaries, or (ii) restrict the Company from entering into change of control transactions (other than as specified under "—Merger and Consolidation" below).

**Merger and Consolidation** 

Unless otherwise provided in any prospectus supplement and subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Indenture, the Company will covenant that it will not merge or consolidate with or sell, lease, transfer, convey or otherwise dispose of its properties and assets substantially as an entirety to any person unless the successor person is a person organized under the laws of the United States (including any state thereof and the District of Columbia) which expressly assumes the Company's obligations on all the debt securities and under the Indenture and, after giving effect to such transaction, the Company or the successor person would not be in default under the Indenture. Unless otherwise specified in any prospectus supplement, the Indenture will not contain any covenants that restrict the Company from changing its form or state of organization other than pursuant to a merger.

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**Events of Default** 

The Indenture defines "Events of Default" with respect to the debt securities of any series as being one of the following events:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) default in the payment of any installment of interest on that series for 60 days after becoming due;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) default in the payment of principal of (or premium, if any, on) that series when due;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) default in the deposit of any sinking fund payment when due;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) default in the performance or breach of any other covenant or warranty in the Indenture (other than a covenant
or warranty included in the Indenture solely for the benefit of any series of debt securities other than that series) by the Company or any Guarantor of the applicable debt securities for 90 days after notice to us by the Trustee or to us and the
Trustee by the holders of at least 33% in principal amount of the debt securities of all series affected;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(v) certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization with respect to the Company, any Guarantor of the
applicable debt securities, and significant subsidiaries;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(vi) any other Event of Default provided with respect to debt securities of that series; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(vii) any guarantee is held to be unenforceable or invalid or any Guarantor of the applicable debt securities denies
its obligations under its guarantee of the Registered Securities.

If an Event of Default shall occur and be continuing, either the Trustee or the holders of at least 33% in principal amount of the debt securities then outstanding of all series affected, voting as a single class, may declare the principal (or such portion thereof as may be specified in the prospectus supplement relating to any such series) of the debt securities of all such series to be due and payable. Under certain conditions, such a declaration may be annulled. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if an Event of Default pursuant to (v) above occurs with respect to the Company or any Guarantor, the unpaid principal of, premium, if any, and any accrued and unpaid interest on all the debt securities shall become and be immediately due and payable without further action or notice on the part of the Trustee or any holder.

The Indenture provides that the Trustee shall, within 90 days after the occurrence of a default actually known to one of its responsible officers, give the holders of debt securities notice of all uncured defaults actually known to one of its responsible officers (the term "default" to mean the events specified above without grace periods); *provided, however*, that, except in the case of default in the payment of principal of or interest on any debt security, the Trustee shall be fully protected in withholding such notice if it in good faith determines the withholding of such notice is in the interest of the holders of debt securities.

The Company will be required to furnish to the Trustee annually a statement by the principal financial officer, the principal executive officer or the principal accounting officer of the Company stating whether or not, to the best of his or her knowledge, the Company is in default in the performance and observance of any of the terms, provisions and conditions under the Indenture and, if the Company is in default, specifying each such default.

The holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of all series affected will have the right, subject to certain limitations, to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee or exercising any trust or power conferred on the Trustee with respect to the debt securities of such series, and to waive certain defaults with respect thereto. The Indenture provides that in case an Event of Default shall occur and be continuing, the Trustee shall exercise such of its rights and powers under the Indenture, and use the same degree of care and skill in their exercise, as a prudent person would exercise or use under the circumstances in the conduct of his or her own affairs. Subject to such provisions, the Trustee will be under no obligation to exercise any of its rights or powers under the Indenture at the request of any of the holders of debt securities unless they shall have offered to the Trustee security or indemnity satisfactory to it against the costs, expenses and liabilities which might be incurred by it in compliance with such request.

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**Modification of the Indenture** 

The Indenture may generally be modified or amended with the consent of the holders of not less than a majority in principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of each series affected by the modification (voting as a single class); *provided, however*, that no such modification or amendment may be made, without the consent of the holder of each debt security affected, which would (i) reduce the principal amount of or the interest on any debt security, change the stated maturity of the principal of, or any installment of principal of or interest on, any debt security, or the other terms of payment thereof, (ii) reduce the above-stated percentage of debt securities, the consent of the holders of which is required to modify or amend the Indenture, or the percentage of debt securities of any series, the consent of the holders of which is required to waive compliance with certain provisions of the Indenture or to waive certain past defaults or (iii) change the terms and conditions of the obligations of the Guarantors in any manner adverse to the holders.

Without the consent of any holder of debt securities, the Company, the Guarantors and the Trustee may enter into a supplemental indenture for any of the following purposes, among other things:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) to cure any ambiguity, omission, defect or inconsistency;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) to provide for uncertificated debt securities in addition to or in place of certificated debt securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) to comply with the requirements of the SEC in order to effect or maintain the qualification of the Indenture
under the Trust Indenture Act;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) to evidence and provide for the acceptance of appointment by a successor Trustee;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) to conform the terms of the Indenture, the debt securities and/or the guarantees to any provision or other
description of the debt securities or guarantees, as the case may be, contained in the prospectus supplement for the debt securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) to provide for the assumption by a successor corporation, partnership, trust or limited liability company of
the Company's or the Guarantors' obligations under the Indenture, the guarantees and the debt securities, in each case in compliance with the provisions thereof;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) to provide for the issuance of any additional debt securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) to comply with the rules of any applicable securities depository;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) to make any change that would provide any additional rights or benefits to the holders of debt securities
(including to secure the debt securities, add guarantees with respect thereto, transfer any property to or with the Trustee, add to the Company's covenants for the benefit of the holders of debt securities, add any additional events of default
for the debt securities, or surrender any right or power conferred upon the Company or the Guarantors) or that does not adversely affect the legal rights of any holder of debt securities in any material respect;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(j) change or eliminate any restrictions on the payment of principal (and premium, if any) on debt securities in
registered form; provided that any such action does not adversely affect the interests of the holders of debt securities in any material respect; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(k) supplement any provision of the Indenture as necessary to permit or facilitate the defeasance and discharge of
the debt securities in accordance with the Indenture; provided that such action does not adversely affect the interests of any of the holders of debt securities in any material respect.

**Defeasance and Discharge** 

The Indenture provides that the Company or the Guarantors may elect, with respect to the debt securities of any series, either:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) to terminate (and be deemed to have satisfied) any and all obligations in respect of such debt securities
(except for certain obligations to register the transfer or exchange of debt securities, to replace stolen,

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lost or mutilated debt securities, to maintain paying agencies and hold monies for payment in trust and, if so specified with respect to the debt securities of a certain series, to pay the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest, if any, on such specified debt securities and certain obligations owed to the Trustee ("legal defeasance")); or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) to be released from its obligations to comply with any restrictive covenants under the Indenture
("covenant defeasance"),

in either case after the deposit with the Trustee of money and/or U.S. Government Obligations (as defined in the Indenture) sufficient without reinvestment, in the written opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants, to pay and discharge, and which will be applied by the Trustee to pay and discharge, the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on the outstanding debt securities on the day on which such payments are due and payable in accordance with the terms of the Indenture and of the debt securities.

Such amounts may be deposited with the Trustee only if, among other things,

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) in the case of the legal defeasance option, the Company has delivered to the Trustee an opinion of counsel (who
may be counsel to the Company) stating that (A) the Company and the Guarantors have received from, or there has been published by, the Internal Revenue Service a ruling, or (B) since the date of the Indenture there has been a change in the
applicable federal income tax law, in either case to the effect that, and based on such ruling or change in law, such opinion of counsel confirms that, the holders of debt securities will not recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax
purposes as a result of such deposit and defeasance and will be subject to federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such deposit and defeasance had not occurred;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) in the case of the covenant defeasance option, the Company has delivered to the Trustee an opinion of counsel
(who may be counsel to the Company) to the effect that the holders of debt securities will not recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit and defeasance and will be subject to federal income tax on the
same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such deposit and defeasance had not occurred;

The Indenture also provides that the Company and the Guarantors may terminate their obligations under the Indenture when:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Either:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;a. all the debt securities that have been authenticated and delivered have been delivered to the Trustee for
cancellation; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;b. all the debt securities issued that have not been delivered to the Trustee for cancellation have become due and
payable or will become due and payable at their stated maturity within one year ("discharge") or are to be called for redemption within one year under arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by such
Trustee in the Company's name and at the Company's expense, and the Company has deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee sufficient funds to pay and discharge the entire debt on the debt securities to pay principal (and
premium, if any), interest and any additional amounts;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) The Company has paid or caused to be paid all other sums then due and payable under the Indenture; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) The Company has delivered to the Trustee an officer's certificate and an opinion of counsel (who may be
counsel to the Company) stating that all conditions precedent under the Indenture relating to the satisfaction and discharge of the Indenture have been complied with.

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**Forms of Debt Securities** 

Each debt security will be represented either by a certificate issued in definitive form to a particular investor or by one or more global securities representing the entire issuance of debt securities. Certificated securities in definitive form and global securities will be issued in registered form. Definitive securities name you or your nominee as the owner of the debt security, and in order to transfer or exchange these debt securities or to receive payments other than interest or other interim payments, you or your nominee must physically deliver the definitive securities to the Trustee, security registrar, paying agent or other agent, as applicable. Global securities name a depositary or its nominee as the owner of the debt securities represented by these global securities. The depositary maintains a computerized system that will reflect each investor's beneficial ownership of the debt securities through an account maintained by the investor with its broker/dealer, bank, trust company or other representative, as we explain more fully below.

***Registered global securities***

We may issue the registered debt securities in the form of one or more fully registered global securities that will be deposited with a depositary or its nominee identified in the applicable prospectus supplement and registered in the name of that depositary or nominee. In those cases, one or more registered global securities will be issued in a denomination or aggregate denominations equal to the portion of the aggregate principal or face amount of the debt securities to be represented by registered global securities. Unless and until it is exchanged in whole for debt securities in definitive registered form, a registered global security may not be transferred except as a whole by and among the depositary for the registered global security, the nominees of the depositary or any successors of the depositary or those nominees.

If not described below, any specific terms of the depositary arrangement with respect to any debt securities to be represented by a registered global security will be described in the prospectus supplement relating to those debt securities. We anticipate that the following provisions will apply to all depositary arrangements.

Ownership of beneficial interests in a registered global security will be limited to persons, called participants, that have accounts with the depositary or persons that may hold interests through participants. Upon the issuance of a registered global security, the depositary will credit, on its book-entry registration and transfer system, the participants' accounts with the respective principal or face amounts of the debt securities beneficially owned by the participants. Any dealers, underwriters or agents participating in the distribution of the debt securities will designate the accounts to be credited. Ownership of beneficial interests in a registered global security will be shown on, and the transfer of ownership interests will be effected only through, records maintained by the depositary, with respect to interests of participants, and on the records of participants, with respect to interests of persons holding through participants. The laws of some states may require that some purchasers of debt securities take physical delivery of these debt securities in definitive form. These laws may impair your ability to own, transfer or pledge beneficial interests in registered global securities.

So long as the depositary, or its nominee, is the registered owner of a registered global security, that depositary or its nominee, as the case may be, will be considered the sole owner or holder of the debt securities represented by the registered global security for all purposes under the Indenture. Except as described below, owners of beneficial interests in a registered global security will not be entitled to have the debt securities represented by the registered global security registered in their names, will not receive or be entitled to receive physical delivery of the debt securities in definitive form and will not be considered the owners or holders of the debt securities under the Indenture. Accordingly, each person owning a beneficial interest in a registered global security must rely on the procedures of the depositary for that registered global security and, if that person is not a participant, on the procedures of the participant through which the person owns its interest, to exercise any rights of a holder under the Indenture. We understand that under existing industry practices, if we request any action of holders or if an owner of a beneficial interest in a registered global security desires to give or take any action that a holder is entitled to give or take under the indenture, the depositary for the registered global security would authorize the participants holding the relevant beneficial interests to give or take that action, and the participants

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would authorize beneficial owners owning through them to give or take that action or would otherwise act upon the instructions of beneficial owners holding through them.

Principal, premium, if any, and interest payments on debt securities represented by a registered global security registered in the name of a depositary or its nominee will be made to the depositary or its nominee, as the case may be, as the registered owner of the registered global security. None of the Company, the Guarantors, the Trustee, the security registrar or any other agent of the Company, the Guarantors, the Trustee or the security registrar will have any responsibility or liability for any aspect of the records relating to payments made on account of beneficial ownership interests in the registered global security or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records relating to those beneficial ownership interests.

We expect that the depositary for any of the debt securities represented by a registered global security, upon receipt of any payment of principal, premium, interest or other distribution of underlying securities or other property to holders on that registered global security, if any, will immediately credit participants' accounts in amounts proportionate to their respective beneficial interests in that registered global security as shown on the records of the depositary. We also expect that payments by participants to owners of beneficial interests in a registered global security held through participants will be governed by standing customer instructions and customary practices, as is now the case with the debt securities held for the accounts of customers or registered in "street name," and will be the responsibility of those participants.

If the depositary for any of these debt securities represented by a registered global security is at any time unwilling or unable to continue as depositary or ceases to be a clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act, and a successor depositary registered as a clearing agency under the Exchange Act is not appointed by us within 90 days, we will issue debt securities in definitive form in exchange for the registered global security that had been held by the depositary. Any debt securities issued in definitive form in exchange for a registered global security will be registered in the name or names that the depositary gives to the relevant security registrar or other relevant agent of ours or theirs. It is expected that the depositary's instructions will be based upon directions received by the depositary from participants with respect to ownership of beneficial interests in the registered global security that had been held by the depositary.

***Euroclear and Clearstream***

If the depositary for a global security is The Depository Trust Company, or "DTC," you may hold interests in the global security through Clearstream Banking, *société anonyme*, which we refer to as "Clearstream," or Euroclear Bank SA/NV, as operator of the Euroclear System, which we refer to as "Euroclear," in each case, as a participant in DTC. Euroclear and Clearstream will hold interests, in each case, on behalf of their participants through customers' securities accounts in the names of Euroclear and Clearstream on the books of their respective depositaries, which in turn will hold such interests in customers' securities in the depositaries' names on DTC's books.

Payments, deliveries, transfers, exchanges, notices and other matters relating to the debt securities made through Euroclear or Clearstream must comply with the rules and procedures of those systems. Those systems could change their rules and procedures at any time. We have no control over those systems or their participants, and we take no responsibility for their activities. Transactions between participants in Euroclear or Clearstream, on one hand, and other participants in DTC, on the other hand, would also be subject to DTC's rules and procedures.

Participants will be able to make and receive through Euroclear and Clearstream payments, deliveries, transfers, exchanges, notices and other transactions involving any debt securities held through those systems only on days when those systems are open for business. Those systems may not be open for business on days when banks, brokers and other institutions are open for business in the United States.

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In addition, because of time-zone differences, U.S. investors who hold their interests in the debt securities through these systems and wish on a particular day, to transfer their interests, or to receive or make a payment or delivery or exercise any other right with respect to their interests, may find that the transaction will not be effected until the next business day in Luxembourg or Brussels, as applicable. Thus, investors who wish to exercise rights that expire on a particular day may need to act before the expiration date. In addition, investors who hold their interests through both DTC and Euroclear or Clearstream may need to make special arrangements to finance any purchase or sales of their interests between the U.S. and European clearing systems, and those transactions may settle later than transactions within one clearing system.

**Guarantees** 

If any debt securities are to be guaranteed, then the applicable Guarantors will each guarantee the obligations of the Company under such debt securities, to the extent and on the terms, including the terms of subordination, if any, described in the Indenture and in the applicable prospectus supplement to this prospectus.

**Governing Law** 

The Indenture, the debt securities and any guarantee will be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.

**Concerning the Trustee** 

U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, is the Trustee under the Indenture and will have been appointed by the Company as initial security registrar with regard to the debt securities. We will specify any material relationship we may have with the Trustee in the applicable prospectus supplement. In addition, the Trustee may serve as trustee for other debt securities issued by the Company from time to time.

**PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION** 

We may sell our securities in any one or more of the following ways from time to time: (i) through agents; (ii) to or through underwriters, including through underwriting syndicates represented by managing underwriters; (iii) through brokers or dealers; (iv) directly by us to purchasers, including through a specific bidding, auction or other process; or (v) through a combination of any of these methods of sale. Each time we offer and sell securities covered by this prospectus, we will make available a prospectus supplement or supplements that will describe the method of distribution and set forth the terms of the offering, including: (i) the name or names of any underwriters, dealers or agents and the amounts of securities underwritten or purchased by each of them; (ii) if a fixed price offering, the public offering price of the securities and the proceeds to us; (iii) any options under which underwriters may purchase additional securities from us; (iv) any underwriting discounts or commissions or agency fees and other items constituting underwriters' or agents' compensation; (v) terms and conditions of the offering; (vi) any discounts, commissions or concessions allowed or reallowed or paid to dealers; and (vii) any securities exchange or market on which the securities may be listed. Any dealers and agents participating in the distribution of the securities may be deemed to be underwriters, and compensation received by them on resale of the securities may be deemed to be underwriting discounts. Any dealers and agents participating in the distribution of the securities may be deemed to be underwriters, and compensation received by them on resale of the securities may be deemed to be underwriting discounts.

Any initial offering price, dealer purchase price, discount or commission may be changed from time to time.

The securities may be distributed from time to time in one or more transactions, at negotiated prices, at fixed prices (that may be subject to change), at market prices prevailing at the time of sale, at various prices determined at the time of sale or at prices related to prevailing market prices.

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Offers to purchase securities may be solicited directly by us or by agents designated by us from time to time. Any such agent may be deemed to be an underwriter, as that term is defined in the Securities Act, of the securities so offered and sold.

If underwriters are utilized in the sale of any securities in respect of which this prospectus is being delivered, such securities will be acquired by the underwriters for their own account and may be resold from time to time in one or more transactions, including negotiated transactions, at fixed public offering prices or at varying prices determined by the underwriters at the time of sale. Securities may be offered to the public either through underwriting syndicates represented by managing underwriters or directly by one or more underwriters. If any underwriter or underwriters are utilized in the sale of securities, unless otherwise indicated in the applicable prospectus supplement, the obligations of the underwriters are subject to certain conditions precedent and the underwriters will be obligated to purchase all such securities if any are purchased.

If a broker or dealer is utilized in the sale of the securities in respect of which this prospectus is delivered, we will sell such securities as principal. The broker or dealer may then resell such securities to the public at varying prices to be determined by such dealer at the time of resale. Transactions through brokers or dealers may include block trades in which brokers or dealers will attempt to sell securities as agent but may position and resell as principal to facilitate the transaction or in crosses, in which the same broker or dealer acts as agent on both sides of the trade. Any such broker or dealer may be deemed to be an underwriter, as such term is defined in the Securities Act, of the securities so offered and sold.

Offers to purchase securities may be solicited directly by us and the sale thereof may be made by us directly to institutional investors or others, who may be deemed to be underwriters within the meaning of the Securities Act with respect to any resale thereof.

If so indicated in the applicable prospectus supplement, we may authorize agents and underwriters to solicit offers by certain institutions to purchase securities from us or at the public offering price set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement pursuant to delayed delivery contracts providing for payment and delivery on the date or dates stated in the applicable prospectus supplement. Such delayed delivery contracts will be subject only to those conditions set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement.

Agents, underwriters and dealers may be entitled under relevant agreements with us to indemnification by us against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribution with respect to payments that such agents, underwriters and dealers may be required to make in respect thereof. The terms and conditions of any indemnification or contribution will be described in the applicable prospectus supplement.

Underwriters, brokers, dealers or agents may receive compensation in the form of commissions, discounts or concessions from us. Underwriters, brokers, dealers or agents may also receive compensation from the purchasers of securities for whom they act as agents or to whom they sell as principals, or both. Compensation as to a particular underwriter, brokers, dealers or agent might be in excess of customary commissions and will be in amounts to be negotiated in connection with transactions. In effecting sales, brokers or dealers engaged by us may arrange for other brokers or dealers to participate in the resales.

Each series of securities will be a new issue and will have no established trading market. We may elect to list any series of securities on an exchange, but, unless otherwise specified in the applicable prospectus supplement, we shall not be obligated to do so. No assurance can be given as to the liquidity of the trading market for any of the securities.

Agents, underwriters and dealers may engage in transactions with, or perform services for, us and our respective subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business.

Any underwriter may engage in overallotment, stabilizing transactions, short covering transactions and penalty bids in accordance with Regulation M under the Exchange Act. Overallotment involves sales in excess of

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the offering size, which create a short position. Stabilizing transactions permit bids to purchase the underlying security so long as the stabilizing bids do not exceed a specified maximum. Short covering transactions involve purchases of the securities in the open market after the distribution is completed to cover short positions. Penalty bids permit the underwriters to reclaim a selling concession from a dealer when the securities originally sold by the dealer are purchased in a covering transaction to cover short positions. Those activities may cause the price of the securities to be higher than it would otherwise be. If commenced, the underwriters may discontinue any of the activities at any time. An underwriter may carry out these transactions on a stock exchange, in the over-the-counter market or otherwise.

The place and time of delivery for securities will be set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement for such securities.

**VALIDITY OF THE SECURITIES** 

Unless otherwise indicated in the prospectus supplement accompanying this prospectus, the validity of the securities will be passed upon for us by our counsels, Baker & McKenzie LLP and Barry R. Goldman. Any underwriters, dealers or agents will be advised about the validity of the securities and other legal matters by their own counsel, which will be named in the prospectus supplement.

**EXPERTS** 

The consolidated financial statements of Acuity Inc. (formerly known as Acuity Brands, Inc.) appearing in Acuity Inc.'s Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended August 31, 2024, and the effectiveness of Acuity Inc's (formerly known as Acuity Brands, Inc.) internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2024 have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, as set forth in their reports thereon included therein, and incorporated herein by reference. Such financial statements are, and audited financial statements to be included in subsequently filed documents will be, incorporated herein in reliance upon the reports of Ernst & Young LLP pertaining to such financial statements and the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of the respective dates (to the extent covered by consents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission) given on the authority of such firm as experts in accounting and auditing.

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**PART II** 

**INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS** 

**Item 14. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution.** 

The following table sets forth the various expenses, other than the underwriting discounts and commissions, expected to be incurred by Acuity Inc. (the "Company") in connection with the sale and distribution of the securities being registered hereby, all of which will be borne by the Company.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  Filing Fee—Securities and Exchange Commission | $&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) |
|  Accounting fees and expenses | (2) |
|  Legal fees and expenses | (2) |
|  Trustee fees and expenses | (2) |
|  Printing expenses | (2) |
|  Rating agency fees | (2) |
|  Miscellaneous fees and expenses | (2) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Total | $(2) |

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(1) The Company is registering an indeterminate amount of securities under this registration statement and in
accordance with Rules 456(b) and 457(r), the Company is deferring payment of any additional registration fee until the time the securities are sold under this registration statement pursuant to a prospectus supplement.

(2) These fees are calculated based on the number of issuances and amount of securities offered and, accordingly,
cannot be estimated at this time. An estimate of the aggregate expenses in connection with the sale and distribution of the securities being offered will be included in the applicable prospectus supplement.

**Item 15. Indemnification of Directors and Officers.** 

***Acuity Inc., Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. and Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc.***

Acuity Inc., Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. ("ABL") and Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc. ("AIS") are corporations organized under the laws of the state of Delaware. The following summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of the statute, the Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, and Amended and Restated Bylaws, ABL's Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, and Bylaws and AIS's Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, and Amended and Restated Bylaws.

Section 145(a) of the DGCL provides in relevant part that a corporation may indemnify any officer or director who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending, or completed action, suit, or proceeding (other than an action by or in the right of the corporation) by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director or officer of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director or officer of another entity, against expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such action, suit, or proceeding if such person acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe such person's conduct was unlawful.

Section 145(b) of the DGCL provides in relevant part that a corporation may indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending, or completed action or suit by or in the right of the corporation to procure a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that the person is or was a director, officer, employee, or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee, or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, or other enterprise

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against expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred by the person in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit if the person acted in good faith and in a manner the person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and except that no indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue, or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable to the corporation unless and only to the extent that the Court of Chancery or the court in which such action or suit was brought shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses which the Court of Chancery or such other court shall deem proper.

The Company's, ABL's and AIS's bylaws grant their directors and officers a right to indemnification to the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL. In addition, the Company has entered into indemnification agreements with each of its directors and executive officers and expects to enter into similar agreements with any new director or executive officer, which agreements include indemnification for the director or executive officer's service as a director, officer, employee, agent or fiduciary of a subsidiary of the Company.

The Company, ABL and AIS have obtained officers' and directors' liability insurance which insures against liabilities that officers and directors of the Company, ABL or AIS may, in such capacities, incur. Section 145(g) of the DGCL provides that a corporation shall have power to purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee, or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee, or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, or other enterprise against any liability asserted against such person and incurred by such person in any such capacity, or arising out of such person's status as such, whether or not the corporation would have the power to indemnify such person against such liability under that section.

***QSC, LLC***

QSC, LLC ("QSC") is a California limited liability company. The following summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of the statute and QSC's operating agreement.

Section 17704 of the California Revised Uniform Limited Liability Company Act provides that a limited liability company shall reimburse for any payment made and indemnify for any debt, obligation, or other liability incurred by a member of a member-managed limited liability company or the manager of a manager-managed limited liability company in the course of the member's or manager's activities on behalf of the limited liability company, if, in making the payment or incurring the debt, obligation, or other liability, the member or manager complied with their statutory duties. In addition, subject to any limitations set forth in its operating agreement, a limited liability company may reimburse for any payment made and may indemnify for any debt, obligation, or other liability incurred by any other person, including any officer, in the course of that person's activities on behalf of the limited liability company. A limited liability company may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of a member or manager of the limited liability company against liability or any other person asserted against or incurred by the member, manager or other person even if, under the California Revised Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, the operating agreement could not eliminate or limit the person's liability to the limited liability company for the conduct giving rise to the liability.

QSC's operating agreement provides that QSC shall, to the fullest extent permitted by the California Revised Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, indemnify and make advances for expenses to any person who was or is a party, or is threatened to be made a party, to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, by reason of the fact that they are or were a member, manager, or officer of QSC, against losses, damages, expenses (including attorney's fees), judgments, fines and amounts reasonably incurred by them in connection with such action, suit or proceeding.

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***ABL IP Holding LLC***

ABL IP Holding LLC ("IP Holding") is a Georgia limited liability company. The following summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of the statute and IP Holding's operating agreement.

Section 14-11-306 of the Georgia Limited Liability Company Act provides that, subject to such standards and restrictions, if any, as are set forth in the articles of organization or a written operating agreement, a Georgia limited liability company may, and has the power to, indemnify and hold harmless any member or manager or other person from and against any and all claims and demands whatsoever, arising in connection with the limited liability company; *provided, however*, that no limited liability company shall have the power to indemnify any member or manager for any liability that may not be eliminated or limited by the articles of organization or a written operating agreement by reason of division (4)(A)(i) or (ii) of Code Section 14-11-305.

IP Holding's operating agreement provides that IP Holding shall indemnify and hold harmless each member, manager, and officer of IP Holding from and against any and all liabilities, actions, claims, demands, losses and expenses whatsoever relating to or arising out of any action, inaction, or omission in connection with managing the business and affairs of IP Holding to the fullest extent permitted by the Georgia Limited Liability Company Act.

**Item 16. Exhibits.** 

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Exhibit No.** | **Description** |
| 1.1 | Form of Underwriting Agreement.\* |
| 4.1 | [Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Acuity Inc., dated as of September 26, 2007 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 to the registrant's Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on September 26, 2007).](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312507208062/dex31.htm)\*\* |
| 4.2 | [Certificate of Amendment of Acuity Inc., dated as of September 26, 2007 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.2 to the registrant's Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on September 26, 2007).](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312507208062/dex32.htm)\*\* |
| 4.3 | [Certificate of Amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Acuity Inc., dated as of January 6, 2017 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3(c) to the registrant's Form 10-Q as filed with the Commission on January 9, 2017).](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000114421517000005/ex3ccertificateofamendment.htm)\*\* |
| 4.4 | [Certificate of Amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Acuity Inc., dated as of January 7, 2021 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3(d) to the registrant's Form 10-Q as filed with the Commission on January 7, 2021).](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000114421521000008/ayi-20201130xex3d.htm)\*\* |
| 4.5 | [Certificate of Amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Acuity Inc., dated as of January 25, 2024 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 to the registrant's Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on January 26, 2024).](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000114421524000015/ayi-20240124xex31xcertific.htm) |
| 4.6 | [Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Acuity Inc., dated as of January 25, 2024 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.2 to the registrant's Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on January 26, 2024).](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000114421524000015/ayi-20240124xex32xrestated.htm) |
| 4.7 | [Certificate of Amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Acuity Inc., effective as of March 26, 2025 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 to the registrant's Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on March, 12, 2025).](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312525052542/d931430dex31.htm) |
| 4.8 | [Amended and Restated Bylaws of Acuity Inc., dated as of March 26, 2025 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.3 to the registrant's Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on March 12, 2025).](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312525052542/d931430dex33.htm) |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Exhibit No.** | **Description** |
| 4.9 | [Indenture, dated as of November 10, 2020, between Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. and U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as successor to U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to the registrant's Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on November 10, 2020).](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312520290161/d807246dex41.htm)\*\* |
| 4.10 | [Indenture, dated as of July 28, 2025, among Acuity Inc., Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., ABL IP Holding LLC, Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc., QSC, LLC and U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as trustee.\*\*\*](d87918dex410.htm) |
| 4.11 | [Form of Certificate representing Acuity Inc. Common Stock (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to the registrant's Form 8-K as filed with the Commission on December 14, 2001).](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000095014401510028/g73259ex4-1.txt)\*\* |
| 4.12 | Form of Depositary Agreement (including form of Depositary Receipt).\* |
| 4.13 | [Form of Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. Debt Security (included in Exhibit 4.9).](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312520290161/d807246dex41.htm) |
| 4.14 | [Form of Acuity Inc. Debt Security (included in Exhibit 4.10).](d87918dex410.htm) |
| 5.1 | [Opinion of Foley & Lardner LLP.\*\*](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312523264083/d562890dex51.htm) |
| 5.2 | [Opinion of Baker & McKenzie LLP.\*\*\*](d87918dex52.htm) |
| 5.3 | [Opinion of Barry R. Goldman.\*\*\*](d87918dex53.htm) |
| 23.1 | [Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm.\*\*\*](d87918dex231.htm) |
| 23.2 | [Consent of Foley & Lardner LLP (included in Exhibit 5.1 hereto).](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312523264083/d562890dex51.htm) |
| 23.2 | [Consent of Baker & McKenzie LLP (included in Exhibit 5.2 hereto).](d87918dex52.htm) |
| 23.3 | [Consent of Barry R. Goldman (included in Exhibit 5.3 hereto).](d87918dex53.htm) |
| 24.1 | [Power of Attorney of Acuity Inc.\*\*](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312523264083/d562890ds3asr.htm#sig) |
| 24.2 | [Power of Attorney of Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc.\*\*](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312523264083/d562890ds3asr.htm#sig) |
| 24.3 | [Power of Attorney of Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc. (included on the signature pages hereto).](#sig1) |
| 24.4 | [Power of Attorney of QSC, LLC (included on the signature pages hereto).](#sig2) |
| 24.5 | [Power of Attorney of ABL IP Holding LLC\*\*](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1144215/000119312523264083/d562890ds3asr.htm#sig) |
| 25.6 | [Statement of Eligibility of Trustee on Form T-1.\*\*\*](d87918dex256.htm) |
| 107 | [Filing Fee Table.\*\*\*](d87918dexfilingfees.htm) |

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\* To be filed, if necessary, by amendment to this registration statement or as an exhibit to a Current Report on Form 8-K or other report filed by the Company and incorporated herein by reference.

\*\* Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement.

\*\*\* Filed herewith.

**Item 17. Undertakings.** 

Each of the undersigned registrants hereby undertakes:

(1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this
registration statement:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) To include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of the registration statement
(or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement.

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Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with the SEC pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than a 20% change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the "Calculation of Filing Fee Tables" in the effective registration statement;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) To include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the
registration statement or any material change to such information in the registration statement;

provided, however, that paragraphs (1)(i), (1)(ii) and (1)(iii) do not apply if the information required to be included in a post-effective amendment by those paragraphs is contained in reports filed with or furnished to the SEC by such registrant pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act, that are incorporated by reference in the registration statement, or is contained in a form of prospectus filed pursuant to Rule 424(b) that is part of the registration statement.

(2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each such post-effective amendment
shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

(3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which
remain unsold at the termination of the offering.

(4) That, for the purpose of determining liability under the Securities Act to any purchaser:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) Each prospectus filed by such registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3) shall be deemed to be part of the
registration statement as of the date the filed prospectus was deemed part of and included in the registration statement; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) Each prospectus required to be filed pursuant to Rule 424(b)(2), (b)(5), or (b)(7) as part of a registration
statement in reliance on Rule 430B relating to an offering made pursuant to Rule 415(a)(1)(i), (vii), or (x) for the purpose of providing the information required by Section 10(a) of the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of and
included in the registration statement as of the earlier of the date such form of prospectus is first used after effectiveness or the date of the first contract of sale of securities in the offering described in the prospectus. As provided in Rule
430B, for liability purposes of the issuer and any person that is at that date an underwriter, such date shall be deemed to be a new effective date of the registration statement relating to the securities in the registration statement to which that
prospectus relates, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof. Provided, however, that no statement made in a registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration
statement or made in a document incorporated or deemed incorporated by reference into the registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement will, as to a purchaser with a time of contract of sale prior to such effective
date, supersede or modify any statement that was made in the registration statement or prospectus that was part of the registration statement or made in any such document immediately prior to such effective date.

(5) That, for the purpose of determining liability of such registrant under the Securities Act to any purchaser in
the initial distribution of the securities in a primary offering of securities of such registrant pursuant to this registration statement, regardless of the underwriting method used to sell the securities to the purchaser, if the securities are
offered or sold to such purchaser by means of any of the following communications, such registrant will be a seller to the purchaser and will be considered to offer or sell such securities to such purchaser:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) Any preliminary prospectus or prospectus of such registrant relating to the offering required to be filed
pursuant to Rule 424;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) Any free writing prospectus relating to the offering prepared by or on behalf of such registrant or used or
referred to by such registrant;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) The portion of any other free writing prospectus relating to the offering containing material information about
such registrant or its securities provided by or on behalf of such registrant; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) Any other communication that is an offer in the offering made by such registrant to the purchaser.

(6) That, for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each filing of such registrant's
annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act (and, where applicable, each filing of an employee benefit plan's annual report pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act) that is incorporated by
reference in the registration statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of such registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, such registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the SEC such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by such registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of such registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, such registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

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**SIGNATURES** 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form S-3 and has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Atlanta, State of Georgia, on July 28, 2025.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Acuity Inc.** | **Acuity Inc.** |
| By: | /s/ Karen J. Holcom |
|  | Name: Karen J. Holcom |
|  | Title: Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |

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Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Signature** | **Title** | **Date** |
| /s/ Neil M. Ashe<br> Neil M. Ashe | Chairman, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer) | July 28, 2025 |
| /s/ Karen J. Holcom<br> Karen J. Holcom | Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | July 28, 2025 |
| \*<br> Marcia J. Avedon, Ph.D. | Director | July 28, 2025 |
| \*<br> W. Patrick Battle | Director | July 28, 2025 |
| \*<br> Michael J. Bender | Director | July 28, 2025 |
| \*<br> G. Douglas Dillard, Jr. | Director | July 28, 2025 |
| \*<br> James H. Hance, Jr. | Director | July 28, 2025 |
| \*<br> Maya Leibman | Director | July 28, 2025 |
| \*<br> Laura O'Shaughnessy | Director | July 28, 2025 |
| \*<br> Mark J. Sachleben | Director | July 28, 2025 |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| \*By: | /s/ Karen J. Holcom |
|  | Name: Karen J. Holcom |
|  | Title: Attorney-in-Fact |

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**SIGNATURES** 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form S-3 and has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Atlanta, State of Georgia, on July 28, 2025.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc.** | **Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc.** |
| By: | /s/ Neil M. Ashe |
|  | Name: Neil M. Ashe |
|  | Title: Chief Executive Officer |

---

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Signature** | **Title** | **Date** |
| /s/ Neil M. Ashe<br> Neil M. Ashe | Chief Executive Officer, Chairman and Director (Principal Executive Officer) | July 28, 2025 |
| /s/ Karen J. Holcom<br> Karen J. Holcom | Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and Director (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | July 28, 2025 |
| /s/ Barry R. Goldman<br> Barry R. Goldman | Director | July 28, 2025 |

---

------

##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**SIGNATURES** 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form S-3 and has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Atlanta, State of Georgia, on July 28, 2025.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc.** | **Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc.** |
| By: | /s/ Neil M. Ashe |
|  | Name: Neil M. Ashe |
|  | Title: President and Chief Executive Officer |

---

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each of the undersigned hereby constitutes and appoints Neil M. Ashe and Karen J. Holcom, and each of them individually, as his or her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents (with full power of substitution and resubstitution) to act for him or her and in his or her name, place, and stead in any and all capacities, to sign any or all amendments (including, without limitation, post-effective amendments) and supplements to this Registration Statement, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he or she might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or either of them, or their or his or her substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Signature** | **Title** | **Date** |
| /s/ Neil M. Ashe<br> Neil M. Ashe | Chairman, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer) | July 28, 2025 |
| /s/ Karen J. Holcom<br> Karen J. Holcom | Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and Director (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | July 28, 2025 |
| /s/ Barry R. Goldman<br> Barry R. Goldman | Director | July 28, 2025 |

---

------

##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**SIGNATURES** 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form S-3 and has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Atlanta, State of Georgia, on July 28, 2025.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **QSC, LLC** | **QSC, LLC** |
| By: | /s/ Neil M. Ashe |
|  | Name: Neil M. Ashe |
|  | Title: President and Chief Executive Officer |

---

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each of the undersigned hereby constitutes and appoints Neil M. Ashe and Karen J. Holcom, and each of them individually, as his or her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents (with full power of substitution and resubstitution) to act for him or her and in his or her name, place, and stead in any and all capacities, to sign any or all amendments (including, without limitation, post-effective amendments) and supplements to this Registration Statement, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he or she might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or either of them, or their or his or her substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Signature** | **Title** | **Date** |
| /s/ Neil M. Ashe<br> Neil M. Ashe | Chairman, President, Chief Executive Officer and Manager (Principal Executive Officer) | July 28, 2025 |
| /s/ Karen J. Holcom<br> Karen J. Holcom | Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and Manager (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | July 28, 2025 |
| /s/ Barry R. Goldman<br> Barry R. Goldman | Manager | July 28, 2025 |

---

------

##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**SIGNATURES** 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form S-3 and has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Atlanta, State of Georgia, on July 28, 2025.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **ABL IP Holding LLC** | **ABL IP Holding LLC** |
| By: | /s/ Neil M. Ashe |
|  | Name: Neil M. Ashe |
|  | Title: President and Chief Executive Officer |

---

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Signature** | **Title** | **Date** |
| /s/ Neil M. Ashe<br> Neil M. Ashe | President, Chief Executive Officer, Chairman and Manager (Principal Executive Officer) | July 28, 2025 |
| /s/ Karen J. Holcom<br> Karen J. Holcom | Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and Manager (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | July 28, 2025 |
| /s/ Barry R. Goldman<br> Barry R. Goldman | Manager | July 28, 2025 |

---

## Exhibit 4.10

**Exhibit 4.10** 

ACUITY INC.

INDENTURE

Dated as of July 28, 2025

U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,

as Trustee

------

**TABLE OF CONTENTS** 

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  |  | PAGE |
| ARTICLE 1 DEFINITIONS AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF GENERAL APPLICATION | ARTICLE 1 DEFINITIONS AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF GENERAL APPLICATION | ARTICLE 1 DEFINITIONS AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF GENERAL APPLICATION |
|  SECTION 1.01. | *DEFINITIONS* | 7 |
|  SECTION 1.02. | *COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATES AND OPINIONS* | 13 |
|  SECTION 1.03. | *FORM OF DOCUMENTS DELIVERED TO TRUSTEE* | 14 |
|  SECTION 1.04. | *ACTS OF HOLDERS* | 15 |
|  SECTION 1.05. | *NOTICES, ETC., TO TRUSTEE AND COMPANY* | 16 |
|  SECTION 1.06. | *NOTICE TO HOLDERS; WAIVER* | 17 |
|  SECTION 1.07. | *LANGUAGE OF NOTICES, ETC.* | 18 |
|  SECTION 1.08. | *CONFLICT WITH TRUST INDENTURE ACT* | 18 |
|  SECTION 1.09. | *EFFECT OF HEADINGS AND **TABLE OF CONTENTS*** | 18 |
|  SECTION 1.10. | *SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS* | 18 |
|  SECTION 1.11. | *SEPARABILITY CLAUSE* | 18 |
|  SECTION 1.12. | *BENEFITS OF INDENTURE* | 18 |
|  SECTION 1.13. | *GOVERNING LAW* | 18 |
|  SECTION 1.14. | *LEGAL HOLIDAYS* | 18 |
|  SECTION 1.15. | *COMPUTATIONS* | 19 |
|  SECTION 1.16. | *WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL* | 19 |
|  SECTION 1.17. | *NO PERSONAL LIABILITY OF DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES AND STOCKHOLDERS* | 19 |
| ARTICLE 2 **SECURITY FORMS** | ARTICLE 2 **SECURITY FORMS** | ARTICLE 2 **SECURITY FORMS** |
|  SECTION 2.01. | *FORMS GENERALLY* | 19 |
|  SECTION 2.02. | *FORM OF TRUSTEE'S CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICATION* | 20 |
|  SECTION 2.03. | *FORM OF LEGEND FOR GLOBAL SECURITIES* | 20 |
| ARTICLE 3 **THE SECURITIES** | ARTICLE 3 **THE SECURITIES** | ARTICLE 3 **THE SECURITIES** |
|  SECTION 3.01. | *AMOUNT UNLIMITED; ISSUABLE IN SERIES* | 21 |
|  SECTION 3.02. | *DENOMINATIONS* | 23 |
|  SECTION 3.03. | *EXECUTION, AUTHENTICATION, DELIVERY AND DATING* | 23 |
|  SECTION 3.04. | *TEMPORARY SECURITIES* | 25 |
|  SECTION 3.05. | *REGISTRATION, REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER AND EXCHANGE* | 25 |
|  SECTION 3.06. | *MUTILATED, DESTROYED, LOST AND STOLEN SECURITIES* | 28 |
|  SECTION 3.07. | *PAYMENT OF INTEREST; INTEREST RIGHTS PRESERVED* | 28 |
|  SECTION 3.08. | *PERSONS DEEMED OWNERS* | 30 |
|  SECTION 3.09. | *CANCELLATION* | 30 |
|  SECTION 3.10. | *COMPUTATION OF INTEREST* | 30 |
|  SECTION 3.11. | *CUSIP NUMBERS* | 30 |

---

------

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| ARTICLE 4 **SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE** | ARTICLE 4 **SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE** | ARTICLE 4 **SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE** |
|  SECTION 4.01. | *DISCHARGE OF LIABILITY ON SECURITIES; DEFEASANCE* | 30 |
|  SECTION 4.02. | *CONDITIONS TO DEFEASANCE* | 31 |
|  SECTION 4.03. | *APPLICATION OF TRUST MONEY* | 33 |
|  SECTION 4.04. | *REPAYMENT TO THE COMPANY* | 33 |
|  SECTION 4.05. | *INDEMNITY FOR GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS* | 33 |
|  SECTION 4.06. | *REINSTATEMENT* | 33 |
| ARTICLE 5 **REMEDIES** | ARTICLE 5 **REMEDIES** | ARTICLE 5 **REMEDIES** |
|  SECTION 5.01. | *EVENTS OF DEFAULT* | 34 |
|  SECTION 5.02. | *ACCELERATION OF MATURITY; RESCISSION AND ANNULMENT* | 35 |
|  SECTION 5.03. | *COLLECTION OF INDEBTEDNESS AND SUITS FOR ENFORCEMENT BY TRUSTEE* | 36 |
|  SECTION 5.04. | *TRUSTEE MAY ENFORCE CLAIMS* | 37 |
|  SECTION 5.05. | *TRUSTEE MAY ENFORCE CLAIMS WITHOUT POSSESSION OF SECURITIES* | 37 |
|  SECTION 5.06. | *APPLICATION OF MONEY COLLECTED* | 37 |
|  SECTION 5.07. | *LIMITATION ON SUITS* | 38 |
|  SECTION 5.08. | *UNCONDITIONAL RIGHTS OF HOLDERS TO RECEIVE PRINCIPAL, PREMIUM AND INTEREST* | 38 |
|  SECTION 5.09. | *RESTORATION OF RIGHTS AND REMEDIES* | 39 |
|  SECTION 5.10. | *RIGHTS AND REMEDIES CUMULATIVE* | 39 |
|  SECTION 5.11. | *DELAY OR OMISSION NOT WAIVER* | 39 |
|  SECTION 5.12. | *CONTROL BY HOLDERS* | 39 |
|  SECTION 5.13. | *WAIVER OF PAST DEFAULTS* | 40 |
|  SECTION 5.14. | *UNDERTAKING FOR COSTS* | 40 |
|  SECTION 5.15. | *WAIVER OF STAY OR EXTENSION LAWS* | 40 |
| ARTICLE 6 **THE TRUSTEE** | ARTICLE 6 **THE TRUSTEE** | ARTICLE 6 **THE TRUSTEE** |
|  SECTION 6.01. | *CERTAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES* | 41 |
|  SECTION 6.02. | *NOTICE OF DEFAULTS* | 42 |
|  SECTION 6.03. | *CERTAIN RIGHTS OF TRUSTEE* | 42 |
|  SECTION 6.04. | *NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR RECITALS OR ISSUANCE OF SECURITIES* | 44 |
|  SECTION 6.05. | *MAY HOLD SECURITIES* | 44 |
|  SECTION 6.06. | *MONEY HELD IN TRUST* | 44 |
|  SECTION 6.07. | *COMPENSATION AND REIMBURSEMENT* | 44 |
|  SECTION 6.08. | *DISQUALIFICATION; CONFLICTING INTERESTS* | 45 |
|  SECTION 6.09. | *CORPORATE TRUSTEE REQUIRED; ELIGIBILITY* | 45 |
|  SECTION 6.10. | *RESIGNATION AND REMOVAL; APPOINTMENT OF A SUCCESSOR* | 45 |
|  SECTION 6.11. | *ACCEPTANCE OF APPOINTMENT BY SUCCESSOR* | 47 |
|  SECTION 6.12. | *MERGER, CONVERSION, CONSOLIDATION OR SUCCESSION TO BUSINESS* | 48 |
|  SECTION 6.13. | *PREFERENTIAL COLLECTION OF CLAIMS AGAINST COMPANY* | 48 |
|  SECTION 6.14. | *APPOINTMENT OF AUTHENTICATING AGENT* | 48 |

---

------

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| ARTICLE 7 **HOLDERS' LISTS AND REPORTS BY TRUSTEE AND COMPANY** | ARTICLE 7 **HOLDERS' LISTS AND REPORTS BY TRUSTEE AND COMPANY** | ARTICLE 7 **HOLDERS' LISTS AND REPORTS BY TRUSTEE AND COMPANY** |
|  SECTION 7.01. | *COMPANY TO FURNISH TRUSTEE NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF HOLDERS OF SECURITIES* | 49 |
|  SECTION 7.02. | *PRESERVATION OF INFORMATION; COMMUNICATIONS TO HOLDERS* | 50 |
|  SECTION 7.03. | *REPORTS BY THE TRUSTEE* | 50 |
|  SECTION 7.04. | *REPORTS BY COMPANY AND GUARANTORS* | 51 |
| ARTICLE 8 **CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, CONVEYANCE, TRANSFER OR LEASE** | ARTICLE 8 **CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, CONVEYANCE, TRANSFER OR LEASE** | ARTICLE 8 **CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, CONVEYANCE, TRANSFER OR LEASE** |
|  SECTION 8.01. | *COMPANY MAY CONSOLIDATE, ETC., ONLY ON CERTAIN TERMS* | 52 |
|  SECTION 8.02. | *SUCCESSOR SUBSTITUTED* | 52 |
|  SECTION 8.03. | *ANY GUARANTOR MAY CONSOLIDATE, ETC., ONLY ON CERTAIN TERMS* | 53 |
|  SECTION 8.04. | *SUCCESSOR SUBSTITUTED FOR ANY GUARANTOR* | 54 |
| ARTICLE 9 **SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES** | ARTICLE 9 **SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES** | ARTICLE 9 **SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES** |
|  SECTION 9.01. | *SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES WITHOUT CONSENT OF HOLDERS* | 54 |
|  SECTION 9.02. | *SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES WITH CONSENT OF HOLDERS* | 55 |
|  SECTION 9.03. | *EXECUTION OF SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES* | 56 |
|  SECTION 9.04. | *EFFECT OF SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES* | 56 |
|  SECTION 9.05. | *CONFORMITY WITH TRUST INDENTURE ACT* | 56 |
|  SECTION 9.06. | *REFERENCE IN SECURITIES TO SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES* | 56 |
| ARTICLE 10 **COVENANTS** | ARTICLE 10 **COVENANTS** | ARTICLE 10 **COVENANTS** |
|  SECTION 10.01. | *PAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL, PREMIUM AND INTEREST* | 56 |
|  SECTION 10.02. | *MAINTENANCE OF OFFICE OR AGENCY* | 57 |
|  SECTION 10.03. | *MONEY FOR SECURITY PAYMENTS TO BE HELD IN TRUST* | 57 |
|  SECTION 10.04. | *STATEMENT AS TO COMPLIANCE* | 58 |
|  SECTION 10.05. | *CORPORATE EXISTENCE* | 58 |
|  SECTION 10.06. | *WAIVER OF CERTAIN COVENANTS* | 58 |
|  SECTION 10.07. | *ADDITIONAL AMOUNTS* | 59 |
| ARTICLE 11 **REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES** | ARTICLE 11 **REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES** | ARTICLE 11 **REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES** |
|  SECTION 11.01. | *APPLICABILITY OF THIS ARTICLE* | 59 |
|  SECTION 11.02. | *ELECTION TO REDEEM; NOTICE TO TRUSTEE* | 60 |
|  SECTION 11.03. | *SELECTION BY TRUSTEE OF SECURITIES TO BE REDEEMED* | 60 |
|  SECTION 11.04. | *NOTICE OF REDEMPTION* | 60 |
|  SECTION 11.05. | *DEPOSIT OF REDEMPTION PRICE* | 61 |
|  SECTION 11.06. | *SECURITIES PAYABLE ON REDEMPTION DATE* | 61 |
|  SECTION 11.07. | *SECURITIES REDEEMED IN PART* | 62 |
| ARTICLE 12 **SINKING FUNDS** | ARTICLE 12 **SINKING FUNDS** | ARTICLE 12 **SINKING FUNDS** |
|  SECTION 12.01. | *APPLICABILITY OF ARTICLE* | 62 |
|  SECTION 12.02. | *SATISFACTION OF SINKING FUND PAYMENTS WITH SECURITIES* | 62 |
|  SECTION 12.03. | *REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES FOR SINKING FUND* | 63 |

---

------

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| ARTICLE 13 **MEETINGS OF THE HOLDERS OF SECURITIES** | ARTICLE 13 **MEETINGS OF THE HOLDERS OF SECURITIES** | ARTICLE 13 **MEETINGS OF THE HOLDERS OF SECURITIES** |
|  SECTION 13.01. | *PURPOSES FOR WHICH MEETINGS MAY BE CALLED* | 63 |
|  SECTION 13.02. | *CALL, NOTICE AND PLACE OF MEETINGS* | 63 |
|  SECTION 13.03. | *PERSONS ENTITLED TO VOTE AT MEETINGS* | 64 |
|  SECTION 13.04. | *QUORUM; ACTION* | 64 |
|  SECTION 13.05. | *DETERMINATION OF VOTING RIGHTS; CONDUCT AND ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING* | 65 |
|  SECTION 13.06. | *COUNTING VOTES AND RECORDING ACTION OF MEETINGS* | 65 |
|  SECTION 13.07. | *FORCE MAJEURE* | 66 |
|  SECTION 13.08. | *U.S.A. PATRIOT ACT* | 66 |
|  SECTION 13.09. | *SIGNATURES* | 66 |
| ARTICLE 14 **GUARANTEES** | ARTICLE 14 **GUARANTEES** |  |
|  SECTION 14.01. | *GUARANTEES* | 66 |
|  SECTION 14.02. | *RELEASE OF GUARANTORS* | 68 |
|  SECTION 14.03. | *NO SUBROGATION* | 68 |
|  SECTION 14.04. | *ADDITIONAL GUARANTORS* | 68 |

---

EXHIBIT A. FORM OF SECURITY

------

**Certain Sections of this Indenture relating to Sections 310 through 318(a),** 

**inclusive, of the Trust Indenture Act of 1939:** 

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
|  Trust Indenture Act Section | Indenture Section |
|  § 310(a)(1) | 6.09 |
|  (a)(2) | 6.09 |
|  (a)(3) | Not Applicable |
|  (a)(4) | Not Applicable |
|  (a)(5) | 6.09 |
| (b) | 6.08 |
|  | 6.10 |
|  § 311(a) | 6.13 |
| (b) | 6.13 |
|  § 312(a) | 7.01 |
|  | 7.02 |
| (b) | 7.02 |
| (c) | 7.02 |
|  § 313(a) | 7.03 |
| (b) | 7.03 |
| (c) | 7.03 |
| (d) | 7.03 |
|  § 314(a) | 7.04 |
|  (a)(4) | 1.02 |
|  | 10.04 |
| (b) | Not Applicable |
|  (c)(1) | 1.02 |
|  (c)(2) | 1.02 |
|  (c)(3) | Not Applicable |
| (d) | Not Applicable |
| (e) | 1.02 |
| (f) | Not Applicable |
|  § 315(a) | 6.01 |
| (b) | 6.02 |
| (c) | 6.01 |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| (d) | 6.01 |
| (e) | 5.14 |
|  § 316(a) | 1.01 |
|  (a)(1)(A) | 5.02 |
|  | 5.12 |
|  (a)(1)(B) | 5.13 |
|  (a)(2) | Not Applicable |
| (b) | 5.08 |
| (c) | 1.04 |
|  § 317(a)(1) | 5.03 |
|  (a)(2) | 5.04 |
| (b) | 10.03 |
|  § 318(a) | 1.08 |

---

NOTE: This cross-reference table shall not, for any purpose, be deemed part of the Indenture.

------

INDENTURE, dated as of July 28, 2025, among (i) ACUITY INC., a Delaware corporation (hereinafter called the "**Company**") having its principal office at 1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200, Atlanta, Georgia 30309, (ii) Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., a Delaware corporation (hereinafter called "**ABL**") having its principal office at 1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200, Atlanta, Georgia 30309, (iii) Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc., a Delaware corporation (hereinafter called "**AIS**") having its principal office at 1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200, Atlanta, Georgia 30309, (iv) QSC, LLC, a California limited liability company (hereinafter called "**QSC**") having its principal office at 1675 MacArthur Blvd., Costa Mesa, California 92626, (v) ABL IP Holding LLC, a Georgia limited liability company (hereinafter called "**ABL IP**" and, together with ABL, AIS and QSC, the "**Guarantors**" and each a "**Guarantor**") having its principal office at 1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200, Atlanta, Georgia 30309 and (vi) U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, a national banking corporation (hereinafter called the "**Trustee**").

**RECITALS OF THE COMPANY** 

The Company has duly authorized the execution and delivery of this Indenture to provide for the issuance from time to time of its unsecured debentures, notes or other evidences of indebtedness (hereinafter called the "**Securities**") in an unlimited aggregate principal amount, to be issued in one or more series as in this Indenture provided.

Each Guarantor has duly authorized the execution and delivery of this Indenture and deems it appropriate to guarantee the Securities on the terms herein provided.

All things necessary to make this Indenture a valid agreement of the Company and each Guarantor, in accordance with its terms, have been done.

NOW, THEREFORE, THIS INDENTURE WITNESSETH:

For and in consideration of the premises and the purchase of the Securities by the Holders thereof, it is mutually covenanted and agreed, for the equal and proportionate benefit of all Holders of the Securities or of a series thereof, as follows:

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF GENERAL APPLICATION

Section 1.01. *Definitions*. For all purposes of this Indenture, except as otherwise expressly provided or unless the context otherwise requires:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) the terms defined in this Article have the meanings assigned to them in this Article, and include the plural as well as the singular;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) all other terms used herein which are defined in the Trust Indenture Act, either directly or by reference therein, have the meanings assigned to them therein;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) all accounting terms not otherwise defined herein have the meanings assigned to them in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, and, except as otherwise herein expressly provided, the term "generally accepted accounting principles" with respect to any computation required or permitted hereunder shall mean such accounting principles which are generally accepted in the United States at the date or time of such computation;

------

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) any reference herein to a merger, transfer, consolidation, amalgamation, consolidation, assignment, sale, disposition or transfer, or similar term, shall be deemed to apply to a division of or by a limited liability company or a limited partnership, or an allocation of assets to a series of a limited liability company or a limited partnership (or the unwinding of such a division or allocation), as if it were a merger, transfer, consolidation, amalgamation, consolidation, assignment, sale or transfer, or similar term, as applicable, to, of or with a separate Person. Any division of a limited liability company or a limited partnership shall constitute a separate Person hereunder (and each division of any limited liability company or any limited partnership that is a Subsidiary, joint venture or any other like term shall also constitute such a Person or entity);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) unless the context otherwise requires, any reference to an "Article" or a "Section" refers to an Article or Section, as the case may be, of this Indenture; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) the words "herein," "hereof" and "hereunder" and other words of similar import refer to this Indenture as a whole and not to any particular Article, Section or other subdivision.

Certain terms used principally in Article 6 or Article 10 are defined in the applicable Article.

"**Act**", when used with respect to any Holder, has the meaning specified in Section 1.04.

"**Affiliate**" of any specified Person means any other Person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with such specified Person. For the purposes of this definition, "**control**" when used with respect to any specified Person means the power to direct the management and policies of such Person, directly or indirectly, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise; and the terms "**controlling**" and "**controlled**" have meanings correlative to the foregoing.

"**Authenticating Agent**" means any Person authorized by the Trustee pursuant to Section 6.14 to act on behalf of the Trustee to authenticate securities.

"**Authorized Officer**", when used with respect to the Company or any Guarantor, means the Chairman of the Board, a Senior Vice President, a Vice President, the General Counsel, an Assistant General Counsel, the Treasurer, an Assistant Treasurer, the Controller, an Assistant Controller, the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Company or such Guarantor, as the case may be.

"**Board of Directors**" means either the board of directors of the Company or a Guarantor, as the case may be, or any duly authorized committee of that board.

"**Board Resolution**" means a copy of a resolution certified by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Company or a Guarantor, as the case may be, to have been duly adopted by the Board of Directors and to be in full force and effect on the date of such certification, and delivered to the Trustee. Where any provision of this Indenture refers to action to be taken pursuant to a Board Resolution (including the establishment of any series of the Securities and the forms and terms thereof), such action may be taken by any officer or employee of the Company or the applicable Guarantor authorized to take such action by the Board of Directors of the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, as evidenced by a Board Resolution.

"**Business Day**", when used with respect to any Place of Payment or any other particular location referred to in this Indenture or in the Securities, means each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which is not a day on which banking institutions in that Place of Payment or other location are authorized or obligated by law or executive order to close, unless otherwise specified for a particular series of Securities.

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"**Capital Stock**" means: (1) with respect to any person that is a corporation, any and all shares, interests, participations or other equivalents (however designated and whether or not voting) of corporate stock, including each class of common stock and preferred stock of such person, and all options, warrants or other rights to purchase or acquire any of the foregoing; and (2) with respect to any person that is not a corporation, any and all partnership, membership or other equity interests of such person, and all options, warrants or other rights to purchase or acquire any of the foregoing.

"**Commission**" means the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, as from time to time constituted, created under the Exchange Act, or if at any time after the execution of this instrument such Commission is not existing and performing the duties now assigned to it under the Trust Indenture Act, then the body performing such duties at such time.

"**Company**" means the Person named as the "**Company**" in the first paragraph of this instrument until a successor Person shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this Indenture, and thereafter "**Company**" shall mean such successor Person.

"**Company Request**" and "**Company Order**" mean, respectively, a written request or order signed in the name of the Company by one or more Authorized Officers of the Company, and delivered to the Trustee.

"**Corporate Trust Office**" means the designated corporate trust office of the Trustee at which, at any particular time, its corporate trust business shall be administered, which office at the date of this Indenture is located at the address first set forth in Section 1.05(a) herein, or such other address as the Trustee may designate from time to time by notice to the Holders and the Company, or the designated corporate trust office of any successor Trustee (or such other address as such successor Trustee may designate from time to time by notice to the Holders and the Company).

"**Default**" means an event or condition the occurrence of which is, or with the lapse of time or the giving of notice or both would be, an Event of Default.

"**Defaulted Interest**" has the meaning specified in Section 3.07.

"**Depositary**" means the Person that is designated by the Company in Article 3 to act as depositary for any series of Securities with respect to such series (or any successor to such depositary).

"**Dollar or $**" means a dollar or other equivalent unit in such coin or currency of the United States as at the time shall be legal tender for the payment of public and private debts.

"**DTC**" means The Depository Trust Company or a nominee thereof or successor thereto.

"**Event of Default**" has the meaning specified in Section 5.01.

"**Exchange Act**" means the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and any statute successor thereto, in each case as amended from time to time.

"**Global Security**" means a Security that evidences all or part of a series of Securities issued to the Depositary or its nominee for such series, and registered in the name of such Depositary or its nominee and bearing the legend set forth in Section 2.03.

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"**Government Obligations**" means, with respect to a series of Securities, (i) direct obligations of a government that issues the currency in which the Securities of the series are payable (or, in the case of any series of Securities denominated in Euros, direct obligations of a government of a country in the European Monetary Union) for the payment of which the full faith and credit of such government is pledged, or (ii) obligations of a Person controlled or supervised by and acting as an agency or instrumentality of such government, the payment of which is unconditionally guaranteed as a full faith and credit obligation by such government, which, in either case under clause (i) or (ii) above, are not callable or redeemable at the option of the issuer thereof; or (iii) depository receipts issued by a bank or trust company as custodian with respect to any such Government Obligations or a specific payment of interest on or principal of any such Government Obligation held by such custodian for the account of the holder of a depository receipt, provided that (except as required by law) such custodian is not authorized to make any deduction from the amount payable to the holder of such depository receipt from any amount received by the custodian in respect of the Government Obligation evidenced by such depository receipt.

"**Guarantee**" means, with respect to any series of Securities, the guarantee by any Guarantor of such series of Securities on the terms herein provided, including the guarantee by each Guarantor set forth in Article 14 of this Indenture.

"**Guarantor**" means each Person that is both (i) named as a "**Guarantor**" in the first paragraph of this instrument or that has subsequently become a party to this Indenture as a "**Guarantor**", and (ii) identified as a "**Guarantor**" in the applicable supplemental indenture, Board Resolutions or Officer's Certificate that establishes a particular series of Securities; provided that a successor to such Person pursuant to the applicable provisions of this Indenture shall thereafter be the Guarantor in the stead of such Person.

"**Holder**" means the Person in whose name the Security is registered in the Security Register.

"**Indenture**" means this instrument as originally executed or as it may from time to time be supplemented or amended by one or more indentures supplemental hereto entered into pursuant to the applicable provisions hereof and shall include the terms of a particular series of Securities established as contemplated by Section 3.01.

"**Interest Payment Date**", when used with respect to any Security, means the Stated Maturity of an installment of interest on such Security.

"**Internal Revenue Code**" means the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended to the date hereof and from time to time hereafter, and any successor statute.

"**Maturity**", when used with respect to any Security, means the date on which the principal of such Security or an installment of principal becomes due and payable as therein or herein provided, whether at the Stated Maturity or by declaration of acceleration, call for redemption or otherwise.

"**Notice of Default**" means a written notice of the kind specified in Section 5.01.

"**Officer's Certificate**" means a certificate executed by one or more Authorized Officers (or any Person designated in writing by an Authorized Officer as authorized to execute Officer's Certificates) and delivered to the Trustee.

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"**Opinion of Counsel**" means a written opinion of counsel, who may be an employee of or counsel to the Company or a Guarantor, as the case may be, or other counsel reasonably acceptable to the Trustee. Any Opinion of Counsel required to be delivered under this Indenture may have qualifications customary for opinions of the type required and counsel delivering such Opinion of Counsel may rely as to factual matters on certificates of the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, or governmental or other officials customary for opinions of the type required.

"**Original Issue Discount Security**" means any Security which provides for an amount less than the principal amount thereof to be due and payable upon a declaration of acceleration of the Stated Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 5.02. To the extent that the term "interest" is used herein with respect to an Original Issue Discount Security which by its terms bears interest only after Maturity, it means interest payable after Maturity.

"**Outstanding**", when used with respect to Securities of all Series or Securities of any Series means, as of the date of determination, all such Securities theretofore authenticated and delivered under this Indenture, except:

(i) Such Securities theretofore cancelled by the Trustee or delivered to the Trustee for cancellation;

(ii) Such Securities or portions thereof for whose payment or redemption (A) money in the necessary amount has been theretofore deposited in trust with the Trustee or any Paying Agent (other than the Company or any Guarantor) or set aside and segregated in trust by the Company or any Guarantor (if the Company or such Guarantor shall act as the Paying Agent) for the Holders of such Securities appertaining thereto or (B) Government Obligations as contemplated by Section 4.02 in the necessary amount have been theretofore deposited in satisfaction of the requirements of Section 4.02 with the Trustee (or another trustee satisfying the requirements of Section 6.09) in trust for the Holders of such Securities thereto appertaining in accordance with Section 4.03; *provided* that, if such Securities are to be redeemed, notice of such redemption has been duly given pursuant to this Indenture or provision therefor satisfactory to the Trustee has been made; and

(iii) such Securities which have been paid pursuant to Section 3.06 or in exchange for or in lieu of which other Securities have been authenticated and delivered pursuant to this Indenture other than any such Securities in respect of which there shall have been presented to the Trustee proof satisfactory to it that such Securities are held by a protected purchaser in whose hands such Securities are valid obligations of the Company and the Guarantors;

*provided, however,* that in determining whether the Holders of the requisite principal amount of such Outstanding Securities have given any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent or waiver hereunder or whether a quorum is present at a meeting of Holders of such Securities, (i) the principal amount of an Original Issue Discount Security that shall be deemed to be Outstanding shall be the amount of the principal thereof that would be due and payable as of the date of such determination upon acceleration of the Stated Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 5.02, (ii) the principal amount of Securities denominated in more than one currency (including composite currencies) shall be the Dollar equivalent (determined, unless otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 3.01, on the basis of the spot rate of exchange, on the date of such determination, for any currency other than Dollars as determined by the Company or by an authorized exchange rate agent and evidenced to the Trustee by an Officer's Certificate) of the principal amount (or, in the case of an Original Issue Discount Security, the Dollar equivalent on the date of such determination of the amount determined as provided in (i) above) of such Securities, and (iii) Securities owned by the Company, any Guarantor or any other obligor upon the Securities or any Affiliate of the Company, any Guarantor or such other obligor shall be disregarded and deemed not to be Outstanding, except that, in determining whether the Trustee shall be protected in relying upon any such request, demand, authorization, direction, notice,

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consent or waiver, or upon any such determination as to the presence of a quorum only Securities which a Responsible Officer of the Trustee actually knows to be so owned shall be so disregarded. Securities so owned which have been pledged in good faith may be regarded as Outstanding if the pledgee establishes to the satisfaction of the Trustee the pledgee's right so to act with respect to such Securities and that the pledgee is not the Company, any Guarantor or any other obligor upon the Securities or any Affiliate of the Company, any Guarantor or such other obligor. For purposes of clause (ii) above, an exchange rate agent may be authorized in advance or from time to time by the Company, and may be the Trustee. Any such determination by the Company or by any such exchange rate agent shall be conclusive and binding on all Holders of Securities and, in the case of such determination by the Company, neither the Trustee nor such exchange rate agent shall be liable therefor or, in the case of such determination by such exchange rate agent, the Trustee shall not be liable therefor.

"**Paying Agent**" means any Person (including the Company or any Guarantor) appointed by the Company to pay the principal of (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on any securities on behalf of the Company and who initially shall be the Trustee.

"**Person**" means any individual, corporation, partnership, joint venture association, joint-stock company, limited liability company, trust, unincorporated organization or government or any agency or political subdivision thereof.

"**Place of Payment**", when used with respect to any series of Securities, means the place or places where, subject to the provisions of Section 10.02, the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest, if any, on the Securities of that series are payable as specified as contemplated by Section 3.01.

"**Predecessor Security**" of any particular Security means every previous Security evidencing all or a portion of the same debt and guarantee as that evidenced by such particular Security; and, for the purposes of this definition, any Security authenticated and delivered under Section 3.06 in exchange for or in lieu of a mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security, as the case may be, shall be deemed to evidence the same debt and guarantee as the mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security, as the case may be.

"**Redemption Date**", when used with respect to any Security to be redeemed, means the date fixed for such redemption by or pursuant to this Indenture.

"**Redemption Price**", when used with respect to any Security to be redeemed, means the price at which it is to be redeemed pursuant to this Indenture (including any premium with respect thereto).

"**Regular Record Date**" for the interest payable on any Interest Payment Date on the Securities of any series means the date specified for that purpose as contemplated by Section 3.01.

"**Responsible Officer**", when used with respect to the Trustee, means any officer within the corporate trust department (or any successor group of the Trustee) to whom any corporate trust matter is referred having direct responsibility for the administration of this Indenture, and also means, any other officer because of his knowledge of and familiarity with the particular subject.

"**Securities**" has the meaning stated in the first recital of this Indenture and more particularly means any Securities authenticated and delivered under this Indenture substantially in the form of Securities set forth in Exhibit A or established pursuant to Section 2.01.

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"**Securities Act**" means the United States Securities Act of 1933 and any statute successor thereto, in each case as amended from time to time.

"**Security Register**" and "**Security Registrar**" have the respective meanings specified in Section 3.05.

"**Significant Subsidiaries**" means any Subsidiary of the Company that is a "significant subsidiary" within the meaning of Rule 1-02(w) of Regulation S-X under the Securities Act.

"**Special Record Date**" for the payment of any Defaulted Interest on the Securities of any series means a date fixed by the Trustee pursuant to Section 3.07.

"**Stated Maturity**", when used with respect to any Security or any installment of principal thereof or interest thereon, means the date specified in such Security as the fixed date on which the principal of such Security or such installment of principal or interest is due and payable.

"**Subsidiary**" means any corporation, limited liability company, limited partnership or other similar type of business entity in which the Company and/or one or more of its subsidiaries together own more than 50% of the total voting power of shares of capital stock entitled (without regard to the occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of the board of directors or similar governing body of such corporation, limited liability company, limited partnership or other similar type of business entity, directly or indirectly.

"**Trust Indenture Act**" means the United States Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended and as in force at the date as of which this instrument was executed, except as provided in Section 9.05; *provided, however,* that in the event that the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 is amended after such date, "Trust Indenture Act" means, to the extent required by any such amendment, the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 as so amended.

"**Trustee**" means the Person named as the "Trustee" in the first paragraph of this instrument until a successor trustee shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this Indenture, and thereafter "Trustee" shall mean or include each Person who is then a Trustee hereunder, and if at any time there is more than one such Person, "Trustee" as used with respect to the Securities of any series shall mean the Trustee with respect to Securities of that series.

"**United States**" means the United States of America (including the States and the District of Columbia), its territories and possessions and other areas subject to its jurisdiction.

Section 1.02. *Compliance Certificates and Opinions.*

Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Indenture, upon any application or request by the Company or any Guarantor to the Trustee to take any action under any provision of this Indenture, if requested by the Trustee, the Company or such Guarantor, as the case may be, shall furnish to the Trustee an Officer's Certificate stating that all conditions precedent, if any, provided for in this Indenture relating to the proposed action have been complied with and an Opinion of Counsel stating that in the opinion of such counsel all such conditions precedent, if any, have been complied with, except that in the case of any such application or request as to which the furnishing of such documents is specifically required by any provision of this Indenture relating to such particular application or request, no additional certificate or opinion need be furnished (subject in all cases to the requirements of the Trust Indenture Act).

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Every certificate or opinion with respect to compliance with a condition or covenant provided for in this Indenture (other than certificates provided pursuant to Section 7.04(a)(iv)) shall include:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) a statement that each individual signing such certificate or opinion has read such condition or covenant and the definitions herein relating thereto;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) a brief statement as to the nature and scope of the examination or investigation upon which the statements or opinions contained in such certificate or opinion are based;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) a statement that, in the opinion of each such individual, he has made such examination or investigation as is necessary to enable him to express an informed opinion as to whether or not such condition or covenant has been complied with; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) a statement as to whether, in the opinion of each such individual, such condition or covenant has been complied with.

Section 1.03. *Form of Documents Delivered to Trustee*.

In any case where several matters are required to be certified by, or covered by an opinion of, any specified Person, it is not necessary that all such matters be certified by, or covered by the opinion of, only one such Person, or that they be so certified or covered by only one document, but one such Person may certify or give an opinion with respect to some matters and one or more other such Persons as to other matters, and any such Person may certify or give an opinion as to such matters in one or several documents.

Any Officer's Certificate may be based, insofar as it relates to legal matters, upon a certificate or opinion of, or representations by, counsel, unless such officer knows, or in the exercise of reasonable care should know, that the certificate or opinion or representations with respect to the matters upon which his certificate or opinion is based are erroneous.

Any Opinion of Counsel may be based, insofar as it relates to factual matters, upon a certificate or opinion of, or representations by, an Authorized Officer or Authorized Officers of the Company or a Guarantor stating that the information with respect to such factual matters is in the possession of the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, unless such counsel knows, or in the exercise of reasonable care should know, that the certificate or opinion or representations with respect to such matters are erroneous.

Any Officer's Certificate or Opinion of Counsel may be based, insofar as it relates to accounting matters, upon a certificate or opinion of or representations by an accountant or firm of accountants in the employ of the Company or a Guarantor or otherwise, unless such officer or counsel, as the case may be, knows, or in the exercise of reasonable care should know, that the certificate or opinion or representations with respect to the accounting matters upon which such certificate or opinion may be based are erroneous.

Where any Person is required to make, give or execute two or more applications, requests, consents, certificates, statements, opinions or other instruments under this Indenture, they may, but need not, be consolidated and form one instrument.

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Section 1.04. *Acts of Holders*.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action provided by this Indenture to be given or taken by Holders may be embodied in and evidenced by one or more instruments of substantially similar tenor signed by such Holders in person or by agent duly appointed in writing, or in a writing that constitutes a record of any meeting of Holders of Securities pursuant to Article 13. Except as herein otherwise expressly provided, such action shall become effective when such instrument or instruments or record, or both, are delivered to the Trustee and, where it is hereby expressly required, to the Company and/or a Guarantor. Such instrument or instruments and any such record (and the action embodied therein and evidenced thereby) are herein sometimes referred to as the "**Act**" of the Holders signing such instrument or instruments or so voting at any such meeting. Proof of execution of any such instrument or of a writing appointing any such agent or proxy, or of the holding by any Person of a Security, shall be sufficient for any purpose of this Indenture and (subject to Section 6.01) conclusive in favor of the Trustee, the Company, any Guarantor and any agent of the Company or any Guarantor, if made in the manner provided in this Section. The record of any meeting of Holders of Securities shall be proved in the manner provided in Section 13.06.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The fact and date of the execution by any Person of any such instrument or writing may be proved by the affidavit of a witness of such execution or by a certificate of any notary public or other officer authorized by law to take acknowledgments of deeds, certifying that the individual signing such instrument or writing acknowledged to him the execution thereof. Where such execution is by an officer of a corporation or association or a member of a partnership, or an official of a public or governmental body, on behalf of such corporation, association, partnership or public or governmental body or by a fiduciary, such certificate or affidavit shall also constitute sufficient proof of his authority. The fact and date of the execution by any Person of any such instrument or writing, or the authority of the Person executing the same, may also be proved in any other manner which shall be satisfactory to the Trustee.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The ownership of Securities shall be proved by the Security Register.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action by the Holder of any Security shall bind every future Holder of the same Security and the Holder of every Security issued upon the registration of transfer thereof or in exchange therefor or in lieu thereof in respect of anything done or suffered to be done by the Trustee, the Company or any Guarantor in reliance thereon, whether or not notation of such action is made upon such Security.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) The Company may, but shall not be obligated to, set any day as a record date for the purpose of determining the Holders of Outstanding Securities entitled to give, make or take any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action provided or permitted by this Indenture to be given, made or taken by Holders of Securities, *provided* that the Company may not set a record date for, and the provisions of this paragraph shall not apply with respect to, the giving or making of any notice, declaration, request or direction referred to in the next paragraph. If any record date is set pursuant to this paragraph, the Holders of Outstanding Securities on such record date, and no other Holders, shall be entitled to take the relevant action, whether or not such Holders remain Holders after such record date; *provided* that no such action shall be effective hereunder unless taken on or prior to the applicable Expiration Date (as defined below) by Holders of the requisite principal amount of Outstanding Securities on such record date. Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to prevent the Company from setting a new record date for any action for which a record date has previously been set pursuant to this paragraph (whereupon the record date previously set shall automatically and with no action by any Person be cancelled and of no effect), and nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to render ineffective

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any action taken by Holders of the requisite principal amount of Outstanding Securities on the date such action is taken. Promptly after any record date is set pursuant to this paragraph, the Company, at its own expense, shall cause notice of such record date, the proposed action by Holders and the applicable Expiration Date to be given to the Trustee in writing and to each Holder of Securities in the manner set forth in Section 1.06.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) The Trustee may set (but shall not be obligated to set) any day as a record date for the purpose of determining the Holders of Outstanding Securities entitled to join in the giving or making of (i) any Notice of Default, (ii) any declaration of acceleration referred to in Section 5.02, (iii) any request to institute proceedings referred to in Section 5.07(b) or (iv) any direction referred to in Section 5.12. If any record date is set pursuant to this paragraph, the Holders of Outstanding Securities on such record date, and no other Holders, shall be entitled to join in such notice, declaration, request or direction, whether or not such Holders remain Holders after such record date; *provided* that no such action shall be effective hereunder unless taken on or prior to the applicable Expiration Date by Holders of the requisite principal amount of Outstanding Securities on such record date. Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to prevent the Trustee from setting a new record date for any action for which a record date has previously been set pursuant to this paragraph (whereupon the record date previously set shall automatically and with no action by any Person be cancelled and of no effect), and nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to render ineffective any action taken by Holders of the requisite principal amount of Outstanding Securities on the date such action is taken. Promptly after any record date is set pursuant to this paragraph, the Trustee, at the Company's expense, shall cause notice of such record date, the proposed action by Holders and the applicable Expiration Date to be given to the Company in writing and to each Holder of Securities in the manner set forth in Section 1.06.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) With respect to any record date set pursuant to this Section, the party hereto which sets such record dates may designate any day as the "**Expiration Date**" and from time to time may change the Expiration Date to any earlier or later day; *provided* that no such change shall be effective unless notice of the proposed new Expiration Date is given to the other party hereto in writing, and to each Holder of Securities in the manner set forth in Section 1.06, on or prior to the existing Expiration Date. If an Expiration Date is not designated with respect to any record date set pursuant to this Section, the party hereto which set such record date shall be deemed to have initially designated the 180th day after such record date as the Expiration Date with respect thereto, subject to its right to change the Expiration Date as provided in this paragraph. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no Expiration Date shall be later than the 180th day after the applicable record date.

Without limiting the foregoing, a Holder entitled hereunder to take any action hereunder with regard to any particular Security may do so with regard to all or any part of the principal amount of such Security or by one or more duly appointed agents each of which may do so pursuant to such appointment with regard to all or any part of such principal amount.

Section 1.05. *Notices, Etc., to Trustee and Company.* 

Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or Act of Holders or other document provided or permitted by this Indenture to be made upon, given or furnished to, or filed with,

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) the Trustee, Security Registrar and Paying Agent by any Holder or by the Company or any Guarantor shall be sufficient for every purpose hereunder if made, given, furnished or filed in writing in English to or with the Trustee at its Corporate Trust Office, which, as of the date of this Indenture, is: U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, Global Corporate Trust Services, 1349 W. Peachtree St. NW, Ste. 1050, Atlanta, GA 30309, Attn: Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. Administrator, Fax: (404) 898-2467, Email: david.ferrell@usbank.com; or

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) the Company or any Guarantor by the Trustee or by any Holder shall be sufficient for every purpose hereunder (unless otherwise herein expressly provided) if in writing and mailed, first-class postage prepaid, to the Company or such Guarantor, as appropriate, addressed to it at the address of its principal office specified in the first paragraph of this instrument, to the attention of the Treasurer or at any other address furnished in writing to the Trustee by the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, prior to the date of such request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or Act of Holders or other document.

None of the Company, any Guarantor or the Trustee shall be deemed to have received any such notice, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or Act of Holders unless given, furnished or filed as provided in this Section 1.05.

All notices, approvals, consents, requests and other communications hereunder must be in writing (and any communication sent to the Trustee hereunder must be in the form of a document that is signed manually or by way of a digital signature provided via DocuSign (or such other digital signature provider as specified in writing to the Trustee by the Company) or an electronic copy thereof), in English, and may only be delivered (a) by personal delivery, or (b) by national overnight courier service, or (c) by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, or (d) by facsimile transmission, with confirmed receipt or (e) by email by way of a PDF attachment thereto. Notice will be effective upon receipt except for notice via email, which will be effective only when the recipient, by return email or notice delivered by other method provided for in this Section, acknowledges having received that email (with an automatically generated receipt or similar notice not constituting an acknowledgement of an email receipt for purposes of this Section). The Company agrees to assume all risks arising out of the use of DocuSign digital signatures and electronic methods to submit instructions and directions to the Trustee, including without limitation the risk of the Trustee acting on unauthorized instructions, and the risk of interception and misuse by third parties.

Section 1.06. *Notice to Holders; Waiver*.

Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, where this Indenture provides for notice to Holders of any event, such notice shall be sufficiently given to Holders of Securities if in writing and mailed, first-class postage prepaid, or electronically delivered to each Holder of a Security affected by such event, at his address as it appears in the Security Register, or in the case of a Global Security, sent in accordance with the applicable procedures of the Depositary, not later than the latest date, and not earlier than the earliest date, prescribed for the giving of such notice.

If, by reason of the suspension of regular mail service, or by reason of any other cause, it shall be impracticable to mail notice of any event to Holders of Securities when such notice is required to be given pursuant to any provision of this Indenture, then such manner of giving such notice as shall be acceptable to the Trustee shall constitute sufficient giving of such notice. In any case where notice to Holders of Securities is given by mail, neither the failure to mail such notice, nor any defect in any notice so mailed, to any particular Holder of a Security shall affect the sufficiency of such notice with respect to other Holders of Securities.

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Where this Indenture provides for notice in any manner, such notice may be waived in writing by the Person entitled to receive such notice, either before or after the event, and such waiver shall be the equivalent of such notice. Waivers of notice by Holders shall be filed with the Trustee, but such filing shall not be a condition precedent to the validity of any action taken in reliance upon such waiver.

Section 1.07. *Language of Notices, Etc.*.

Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver, Act of Holders or other document required or permitted under this Indenture shall be in the English language.

Section 1.08. *Conflict With Trust Indenture Act*.

If any provision hereof limits, qualifies or conflicts with any obligation or requirement included or deemed included herein by operation of the Trust Indenture Act, such obligation or requirement of the Trust Indenture Act shall control.

Section 1.09. *Effect of Headings and Table of Contents*.

The Article and Section headings herein and the **Table of Contents** are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction hereof.

Section 1.10. *Successors and Assigns*.

All covenants and agreements in this Indenture and the Securities by the Company and the Guarantors shall bind their respective successors and assigns, whether so expressed or not.

Section 1.11. *Separability Clause*.

In case any provision in this Indenture or the Securities shall be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby.

Section 1.12. *Benefits of Indenture*.

Nothing in this Indenture or the Securities, expressed or implied, shall give to any Person, other than the parties hereto, their successors hereunder and the Holders of Securities, any benefit or any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim under this Indenture.

Section 1.13. *Governing Law.* 

This Indenture and the Securities shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. This Indenture is also subject to the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act that are required to be part of this Indenture and shall, to the extent applicable, be governed by such provisions.

Section 1.14. *Legal Holidays.* 

In any case where any Interest Payment Date, Redemption Date or Stated Maturity or Maturity of any Security shall not be a Business Day at any Place of Payment, then (notwithstanding any other provision of this Indenture or of the Securities other than a provision in the Securities of any series which specifically states that such provision shall apply in lieu of this Section) payment of principal (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, need not be made at such Place of Payment on such date, but may be made on the next succeeding Business Day at such Place of Payment with the same force and effect as if made on the Interest Payment Date or Redemption Date, or at the Stated Maturity or Maturity, *provided* that no interest shall accrue on the amount so payable for the period from and after such Interest Payment Date, Redemption Date, Stated Maturity or Maturity, as the case may be.

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Section 1.15. *Computations*.

Unless otherwise specifically provided, the certificate or opinion of any independent firm of public accountants of recognized standing selected by the Board of Directors of the Company or any Guarantor, as applicable, shall be conclusive evidence of the correctness of any computation made under the provisions of this Indenture. The Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, shall furnish to the Trustee upon its request a copy of any such certificate or opinion. The Trustee shall not have any liability or responsibility for any calculation or computation contemplated by this Indenture.

Section 1.16. *Waiver of Jury Trial*.

Each of the Company, the Guarantors, the Holders, the Trustee, the Securities Registrar and the Paying Agent hereby irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or relating to this Indenture or the Securities.

Section 1.17. *No Personal Liability of Directors, Officers, Employees and Stockholders*.

No past, present or future director, officer, employee, incorporator or stockholder of the Company or any Guarantor, as such, will have any liability for any obligations of the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, under the Securities or this Indenture or for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, such obligations or their creation. Each Holder of Securities by accepting a Security waives and releases all such liability. The waiver and release are part of the consideration for issuance of the Securities. The waiver may not be effective to waive liabilities under the federal securities laws.

ARTICLE 2

**SECURITY FORMS** 

Section 2.01. *Forms Generally*.

The Securities of each series shall be in substantially the form set forth in Exhibit A to this Indenture, or in such other form (including temporary or permanent global form) as shall be established in one or more indentures supplemental hereto or approved from time to time by or pursuant to Board Resolutions of the Company and the Guarantors (or, if authority has been delegated to any Authorized Officer of the Company or a Guarantor by a Board Resolution, as approved by such Authorized Officer of the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, pursuant to an Officer's Certificate), in each case in accordance with Section 3.01, and in each case with such appropriate insertions, omissions, substitutions and other variations as are required or permitted by this Indenture and may have such letters, numbers or other marks of identification and such legends or endorsements placed thereon as may be required to comply with the rules of any securities exchange or Depositary thereof, or as may, consistently herewith, be determined by the Authorized Officer executing such Securities (or any Person designated in writing by an Authorized Officer as authorized to execute such Securities), as evidenced by their execution of the Securities. If the forms of Securities of any series (or the form of any such temporary or permanent global Security) or the forms of Guarantee of any Series are established by action taken by or pursuant to

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a Board Resolution or pursuant to delegated authority granted by a Board Resolution to an Authorized Officer, a copy of an appropriate record of such action shall be certified by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Company or a Guarantor, as the case may be, and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Company Order contemplated by Section 3.03 for the authentication and delivery of such Securities (or any such temporary or permanent global Security) or Guarantee.

The Trustee's certificate of authentication shall be substantially in the form set forth in this Article.

Unless otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 3.01 with respect to any series of Securities, the Securities of each series shall be issuable in registered form without coupons.

Section 2.02. *Form of Trustee's Certificate of Authentication*.

The Trustee's certificate of authentication shall be in substantially the following form:

This is one of the Securities of the series designated herein referred to in the within mentioned Indenture.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as Trustee | U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as Trustee |
| By: |  |
|  | Authorized Signatory |

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Section 2.03. *Form of Legend for Global Securities*.

Every Global Security authenticated and delivered hereunder shall, in addition to the provisions contained in Exhibit A, bear a legend in substantially the following form:

UNLESS THIS SECURITY IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY, A NEW YORK CORPORATION ("**DTC**"), TO THE ISSUER OR ITS AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER, EXCHANGE OR PAYMENT, AND ANY SECURITY ISSUED IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR IN SUCH OTHER NAME AS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC (AND ANY PAYMENT IS MADE TO CEDE & CO. OR TO SUCH OTHER ENTITY AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL INASMUCH AS THE REGISTERED OWNER HEREOF, CEDE & CO., HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.

THIS SECURITY IS A GLOBAL SECURITY WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE INDENTURE HEREINAFTER REFERRED TO AND IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF DTC OR A NOMINEE THEREOF. THIS SECURITY MAY NOT BE EXCHANGED IN WHOLE OR IN PART FOR A SECURITY REGISTERED, AND NO TRANSFER OF THIS SECURITY IN WHOLE OR IN PART MAY BE REGISTERED, IN THE NAME OF ANY PERSON OTHER THAN DTC OR SUCH NOMINEE, EXCEPT IN THE LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES DESCRIBED IN THE INDENTURE.

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ARTICLE 3

**THE SECURITIES** 

Section 3.01. *Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series*.

The aggregate principal amount of Securities which may be authenticated and delivered under this Indenture is unlimited.

The Securities may be issued in one or more series. There shall be established in or pursuant to a Board Resolution or pursuant to an Officer's Certificate, if authority was granted to an Authorized Officer by a Board Resolution, and, subject to Section 3.03, set forth, in an Officer's Certificate, or established in one or more indentures supplemental hereto, prior to the issuance of Securities of any Series,

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) the title of the Securities of the series (which shall distinguish the Securities of the series from all other Securities);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) any limit upon the aggregate principal amount of the Securities of the series which may be authenticated and delivered under this Indenture (except for Securities authenticated and delivered upon registration of transfer of, or in exchange for, or in lieu of, other Securities of the series pursuant to Sections 3.04, 3.05, 3.06, 9.06 or 11.07);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) the Stated Maturity or Maturities on which the principal of the Securities of the series is payable or the method of determination thereof;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) the rate or rates (which may be fixed or floating) at which the Securities of the series shall bear interest, if any, the date or dates from which such interest shall accrue, the Interest Payment Dates on which such interest shall be payable and the Regular Record Date for the interest payable on Securities on any Interest Payment Date or the formula or method by which such rate or rates, or date or dates may be determined;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) the place or places where, subject to the provisions of Section 10.02, the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest, if any, on Securities of the series shall be payable, any Securities of the series may be surrendered for registration of transfer, Securities of the series may be surrendered for exchange and notices and demands to or upon the Company in respect of the Securities of the series and this Indenture may be served;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) the period or periods within which, the price or prices at which and the terms and conditions upon which Securities of the series may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at the option of the Company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) the obligation, if any, of the Company to redeem or purchase Securities of the series pursuant to any sinking fund or analogous provisions or at the option of a Holder thereof and the period or periods within which, the price or prices at which and the terms and conditions upon which securities of the series shall be redeemed or purchased, in whole or in part, pursuant to such obligation;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) the denominations in which any Securities of the series shall be issuable, if other than denominations of $2,000 and any higher integral multiples of $1,000;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) if other than the principal amount thereof, the portion of the principal amount of Securities of the series which shall be payable upon declaration of acceleration of the Stated Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 5.02;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(j) whether and under what circumstances any additional amounts with respect to any Securities, subject to Section 10.07, will be payable;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(k) any paying agents, transfer agents, registrars or any other agents with respect to the Securities of the series;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(l) the currency or currencies, including composite currencies, in which payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest, if any, on such Securities shall be payable if other than the currency of the United States;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(m) if the principal of (and premium, if any), or interest, if any, on such Securities are to be payable, at the election of the Company or any Holder thereof, in a coin or currency or currencies, including composite currencies, other than that or those in which such Securities are stated to be payable, the coin or currency or currencies, including composite currencies, in which payment of the principal of (and premium, if any), or interest, if any, on Securities of such series as to which such election is made shall be payable, and the period or periods within which, and the terms and conditions upon which, such election may be made;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(n) if such Securities are to be denominated in more than one currency, including composite currencies, the basis of determining the equivalent price in the currency of the United States (if other than as set forth in the definition of Outstanding) for purposes of determining the voting rights of Holders of such Securities under this Indenture;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(o) if the amount of payments of principal of (and premium, if any), or portions thereof, or interest, if any, on such Securities may be determined with reference to an index, formula or other method, the manner in which such amounts shall be determined;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(p) whether any Securities of the series are to be issuable initially in temporary global form and whether any Securities of the series are to be issuable in permanent global form and, if so, whether beneficial owners of interests in any such permanent global Security may exchange such interests for Securities of such series and of like tenor of any authorized form and denomination and the circumstances under which any such exchanges may occur, if other than in the manner provided in Section 3.05;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(q) any restrictions or other provisions relating to the transfer or exchange of any Securities, subject to Section 3.05;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(r) the applicability of Section 4.01 of this Indenture to the Securities of such series;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(s) any other terms of or provisions applicable to the series (which terms and provisions shall not be inconsistent with the provisions of this Indenture); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(t) if applicable, the identity of the guarantors and the terms and conditions of any Guarantee in addition to or in lieu of the Guarantee set forth in Article 14.

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All Securities of any one series shall be substantially identical except as to denomination and except as may otherwise be provided in or pursuant to such Board Resolution or Officer's Certificate referred to above and, subject to Section 3.03, set forth in such Officer's Certificate referred to above or in any such indenture supplemental hereto. All Securities of one series need not be issued at the same time and, unless otherwise provided, a series may be reopened for issuances of additional Securities of such series; *provided* that if such additional Securities are not fungible with the then-outstanding Securities of such series for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the additional Securities shall have a separate CUSIP number, subject to Section 3.11. Securities may differ between series in respect of any matters.

If any of the terms of the Securities of any series are established by action taken by or pursuant to a Board Resolution or Officer's Certificate pursuant to authority granted by a Board Resolution, a copy of an appropriate record of such action shall be certified by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Company and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Officer's Certificate setting forth the terms of the Securities of such series.

Section 3.02. *Denominations*.

The Securities of each series shall be in registered form without coupons and shall be issuable in denominations of $2,000 and any higher integral multiples of $1,000, unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 3.01.

Section 3.03. *Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating*.

The Securities shall be executed on behalf of the Company by an Authorized Officer (or any Person designated in writing by an Authorized Officer as authorized to execute the Securities). The signature of any of these officers on the Securities may be manual, electronic or facsimile.

Securities bearing the manual, electronic or facsimile signatures of individuals who were at any time the proper officers of the Company shall bind the Company notwithstanding that such individuals or any of them have ceased to hold such offices prior to the authentication and delivery of such Securities or did not hold such offices at the date of such Securities.

At any time and from time to time after the execution and delivery of this Indenture, the Company may deliver Securities of any series executed by the Company to the Trustee for authentication, together with a Company Order for the authentication and delivery of such Securities, and the Trustee in accordance with the Company Order shall authenticate and deliver such Securities. If any Security shall be represented by a permanent global Security, then, for purposes of this Section and Section 3.04, the notation of a beneficial owner's interest therein upon original issuance of such Security or upon exchange of a portion of a temporary global Security shall be deemed to be delivery in connection with its original issuance of such beneficial owner's interest in such permanent global Security.

If the forms or terms of the Securities of the series and the Guarantees, as applicable, have been established in or pursuant to one or more Board Resolutions or pursuant to authority granted by one or more Board Resolutions as permitted by Sections 2.01 and 3.01, in authenticating such Securities, and accepting the additional responsibilities under this Indenture in relation to such Securities, the Trustee shall be entitled to receive, and (subject to Section 6.01) shall be fully protected in relying upon, an Opinion of Counsel stating,

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) if the forms of such Securities have been established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution or pursuant to authority granted to an Authorized Officer by a Board Resolution as permitted by Section 2.01, that such forms have been established in conformity with the provisions of this Indenture;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) if the terms of such Securities have been established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution or pursuant to authority granted to an Authorized Officer by a Board Resolution as permitted by Section 3.01, that such terms have been established in conformity with the provisions of this Indenture; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) that such Securities, when authenticated and delivered by the Trustee and issued by the Company in the manner and subject to any conditions specified in such Opinion of Counsel, will constitute valid and legally binding obligations of the Company (with respect to the Securities) and by the Guarantors (with respect to the Guarantee), as applicable, enforceable in accordance with their terms, subject, as to enforcement, to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization and other laws of general applicability relating to or affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights and to general equity principles.

If such forms or terms have been so established, the Trustee shall not be required to authenticate such Securities if the issue of such Securities pursuant to this Indenture will affect the Trustee's own rights, duties or immunities under the Securities and this Indenture or will otherwise affect the Trustee in a manner which is not reasonably acceptable to the Trustee. The Trustee shall have the right to decline to authenticate and deliver any Securities under this Section if the Trustee, being advised by counsel, determines that such action may not lawfully be taken or if the Trustee in good faith shall determine that such action would expose the Trustee to personal liability to existing Holders.

Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 3.01 and of the preceding paragraph, if all Securities of a series are not to be originally issued at one time, it shall not be necessary to deliver the Officer's Certificate, Board Resolution or supplemental indenture otherwise required pursuant to Section 3.01 or the Company Order and Opinion of Counsel otherwise required pursuant to such preceding paragraph at or prior to the time of authentication of each Security of such series if such documents are delivered at or prior to the authentication upon original issuance of the first Security of such series to be issued.

A Company Order delivered in the circumstances set forth in the preceding paragraph may provide that Securities which are the subject thereof will be authenticated and delivered by the Trustee on original issue from time to time upon the written order of persons designated in such Company Order and that such persons are authorized to determine, consistent with the Board Resolution or Officer's Certificate referred to in Section 3.01 or any applicable supplemental indenture, such terms and conditions of said Securities as are specified in such Company Order, provided the foregoing procedure is acceptable to the Trustee.

Each Security shall be dated the date of its authentication.

No Security shall be entitled to any benefit under this Indenture or be valid or obligatory for any purpose unless there appears on such Security a certificate of authentication substantially in the form provided for herein executed by the Trustee by manual, electronic or facsimile signature, and such certificate upon any Security shall be conclusive evidence, and the only evidence, that such Security has been duly authenticated and delivered hereunder and that such Security is entitled to the benefits of this Indenture.

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Minor typographical and other minor errors in the text of any Security shall not affect the validity and enforceability of such Security if it has been duly authenticated and delivered by the Trustee.

Except in the case of Securities of any series as to which it is specified, as contemplated by Section 3.01, that such Securities shall be issued initially in definitive certificated form, the Company shall execute and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver one or more Global Securities with respect to each series of Securities that (i) shall represent an aggregate amount equal to the aggregate principal amount of the initially issued Securities of such series, (ii) shall be registered in the name of the Depositary or the nominee of the Depositary, (iii) shall be delivered by the Trustee to the Depositary or pursuant to the Depositary's instruction, (iv) shall bear a legend substantially in the form required in Section 2.03 and (v) shall bear such other legends or endorsements as contemplated by Section 2.01. Neither the Trustee nor any agent shall have any responsibility or liability for any actions taken or not taken by the Depositary.

Section 3.04. *Temporary Securities*.

Pending the preparation of definitive Securities of any series, the Company may execute, and upon Company Order the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, temporary Securities which are printed, lithographed, typewritten, mimeographed or otherwise produced, in any authorized denomination, substantially of the tenor of the definitive Securities in lieu of which they are issued, in registered form and with such appropriate insertions, omissions, substitutions and other variations as the officers executing such Securities may determine, as evidenced by their execution of such Securities.

If temporary Securities of any series are issued, the Company will cause definitive securities of that series to be prepared without unreasonable delay. After the preparation of definitive Securities of such series, the temporary Securities of such series shall be exchangeable for definitive Securities of such series upon surrender of the temporary Securities of such series at the office or agency of the Company maintained pursuant to Section 10.02 in a Place of Payment for that series, without charge to the Holder. Upon surrender for cancellation of any one or more temporary Securities of any series, the Company shall execute and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver in exchange therefor a like aggregate principal amount of definitive Securities of the same series and of like tenor of authorized denominations. Until so exchanged the temporary Securities of any series shall in all respects be entitled to the same benefits under this Indenture as definitive Securities of such series.

Section 3.05. *Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange*.

The Company shall cause to be kept at the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee a register (the register maintained in such office and in any other office or agency to be maintained by the Company in accordance with Section 10.02 being herein sometimes collectively referred to as the "**Security Register**") in which, subject to such reasonable regulations as it may prescribe, the Company shall provide for the registration of Securities and of transfers and exchanges of Securities. The Trustee is hereby appointed "**Security Registrar**" for the purpose of registering Securities and transfers of Securities as herein provided.

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Upon surrender for registration of transfer of any Security of any series at the office or agency maintained pursuant to Section 10.02 for such purpose in a Place of Payment for that series, the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, in the name of the designated transferee or transferees, one or more new Securities of the same series, of any authorized denominations and of a like aggregate principal amount and tenor.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section, unless and until it is exchanged in whole or in part for the definitive Securities represented thereby, a Global Security representing all or a portion of the Securities may not be transferred except as a whole by the Depositary to a nominee of such Depositary, or by a nominee of such Depositary to such Depositary or another nominee of such Depositary, or by such Depositary or any such nominee to a successor Depositary or nominee of such successor Depositary.

At the option of the Holder, Securities of any series may be exchanged for other Securities of the same series, of any authorized denominations and of a like aggregate principal amount and tenor, upon surrender of the Securities to be exchanged at such office or agency. Whenever any Securities are so surrendered for exchange, the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, the Securities which the Holder making the exchange is entitled to receive.

If at any time the Depositary notifies the Company that it is unwilling or unable to continue as Depositary or if at any time the Depositary shall cease to be a clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act as provided in Section 3.03, the Company shall appoint a successor Depositary. If a successor Depositary is not appointed by the Company within 90 days after the Company receives such notice or becomes aware of such ineligibility, the Company will execute, and the Trustee, upon receipt of a Company Order for the authentication and delivery of definitive Securities, will authenticate and make available for delivery, definitive Securities in an aggregate principal amount equal to the principal amount of the Global Security or Securities representing the Securities in exchange for such Global Security or Securities.

The Company may at any time and in its sole discretion determine that definitive Securities issued in the form of one or more Global Securities shall no longer be represented by such Global Security or Securities. In such event the Company will execute, and the Trustee, upon receipt of a Company Order for the authentication and delivery of definitive Securities, will authenticate and make available for delivery, definitive Securities in an aggregate principal amount equal to the principal amount of the Global Security or Securities representing the Securities in exchange for such Global Security or Securities.

The Depositary may surrender a Global Security in exchange in whole or in part for definitive Securities on such terms as are acceptable to the Company, the Guarantors, the Trustee and such Depositary. Thereupon, the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and make available for delivery, without service charge:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) to each Person specified by such Depositary a new definitive Security or Securities of any authorized denomination as requested by such Person in aggregate principal amount equal to and in exchange for such Person's beneficial interest in the Global Security; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) to such Depositary a new Global Security in a denomination equal to the difference, if any, between the principal amount of the surrendered Global Security and the aggregate principal amount of definitive Securities delivered to Holders thereof.

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Upon the exchange of a Global Security for definitive Securities in an aggregate principal amount equal to the principal amount of such Global Security, such Global Security shall be canceled by the Trustee in accordance with its applicable procedures. Definitive Securities issued in exchange for a Global Security pursuant to this Section shall be registered in such names and in such authorized denominations as the Depositary for such Global Security, pursuant to instructions from its direct or indirect participants or otherwise, shall instruct the Trustee. The Trustee shall make available for delivery such definitive Securities to the Persons in whose names such Securities are so registered.

All Securities issued upon any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities shall be the valid obligations of the Company and the Guarantors, evidencing the same debt, and entitled to the same benefits under this Indenture, as the Securities surrendered upon such registration of transfer or exchange.

Every Security presented or surrendered for registration of transfer or for exchange shall (if so required by the Company or the Security Registrar) be duly endorsed, or be accompanied by a written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Company and the Security Registrar duly executed, by the Holder thereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing. The Company and the Trustee shall be entitled to request an opinion of counsel providing that the transfer complies with applicable securities laws.

No service charge shall be made to a Holder for any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities, but the Company or the Trustee may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax, assessment or other governmental charge that may be imposed in connection with any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities, other than exchanges pursuant to Sections 3.04, 9.06 or 11.07 or Article 12 not involving any transfer.

Neither the Company nor the Trustee shall be required, pursuant to the provisions of this Section: (i) to issue, register the transfer of or exchange any Security of any series during a period beginning at the opening of business 15 Business Days before the day of the mailing or delivering of a notice of redemption of any such Securities selected for redemption of Securities pursuant to Article 11 and ending at the close of business on the day of such mailing or delivering of notice of redemption; or (ii) to register the transfer of or exchange any Security so selected for redemption in whole or in part, except, in the case of any Security to be redeemed in part, any portion thereof that is not redeemed.

The Trustee shall have no obligation or duty to monitor, determine or inquire as to compliance with any restrictions on transfer imposed under this Indenture or under applicable law with respect to any transfer of any interest in any Security (including any transfers between or among Depositary participants or beneficial owners of interests in any Global Security) other than to require delivery of such certificates and other documentation or evidence as are expressly required by, and to do so if and when expressly required by the terms of, this Indenture, and to examine the same to determine substantial compliance as to form with the express requirements hereof.

None of the Trustee, the Security Registrar or the Paying Agent shall have any responsibility or obligation to any beneficial owner of an interest in a Global Security, any agent member or other member of, or a participant in, the Depositary or other Person with respect to the accuracy of the records of the Depositary or any nominee or participant or member thereof, with respect to any ownership interest in the Securities or with respect to the delivery to any agent member or other participant, member, beneficial owner or other Person (other than the Depositary) of any notice or the payment of any amount or delivery of any Securities (or other security or property) under or with respect to such Securities. All notices and communications to be given to the Holders and all payments to be made to Holders in respect of the Securities shall be given or made only to or upon the order of the registered Securities (which shall be the Depositary or its

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nominee in the case of a Global Security). The rights of beneficial owners in any Global Security shall be exercised only through the Depositary, subject to its applicable rules and procedures. The Trustee, Security Registrar and Paying Agent may rely and shall be fully protected in relying upon information furnished by the Depositary with respect to its agent members and other members, participants and any beneficial owners.

Section 3.06. *Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost and Stolen Securities*.

If any mutilated Security is surrendered to the Trustee, together with such security or indemnity as may be required by the Company, the Guarantors or the Trustee, to save each of them harmless, the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver in exchange therefor, a new Security of the same series and of like tenor and principal amount and bearing a number not contemporaneously outstanding.

Provided that there shall have been delivered to the Company, the Guarantors and the Trustee (i) evidence to their satisfaction of the destruction, loss or theft of any Security, and (ii) such security or indemnity as may be required by them, including an indemnity bond satisfactory to them, to save each of them harmless, then, in the absence of notice to the Company, the Guarantors or the Trustee that such Security has been acquired by a protected purchaser, the Company shall execute and upon receipt of a Company Order the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, in lieu of any such destroyed, lost or stolen Security, a new Security of the same series and of like tenor and principal amount and bearing a number not contemporaneously outstanding.

In case any such mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security has become or is about to become due and payable, the Company in its discretion may, instead of issuing a new Security, pay such Security.

Upon the issuance of any new Security under this Section, the Company or the Trustee may require the payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in relation thereto and any other expenses (including the fees and expenses of the Trustee) connected therewith.

Every new Security of any series issued pursuant to this Section in lieu of any destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall constitute an original additional contractual obligation of the Company and the Guarantors, whether or not the destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall be at any time enforceable by anyone, and any such new Security shall be entitled to all the benefits of this Indenture equally and proportionately with any and all other Securities of that series duly issued hereunder.

The provisions of this Section are exclusive and shall preclude (to the extent lawful) all other rights and remedies with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Securities.

Section 3.07. *Payment of Interest; Interest Rights Preserved*.

Interest on any Security of any series which is payable, and is timely paid or duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date shall be paid to the Person in whose name that Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the Regular Record Date for such interest in respect of Securities of such series. The initial payment of interest on any Security of any series which is issued between a Regular Record Date and the related Interest Payment Date shall be payable as provided in such Security or in the Board Resolution or Officer's Certificate pursuant to Section 3.01 with respect to the related series of Securities.

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Any interest on any Security which is payable, but is not timely paid or duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date for Securities of such series (herein called "**Defaulted Interest**"), shall forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on the relevant Regular Record Date by virtue of having been such Holder, and such Defaulted Interest may be paid by the Company, at its election in each case, as provided in clause (a) or (b) below:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The Company may elect to make payment of any Defaulted Interest to the Persons in whose names the Securities of such series in respect of which interest is in default (or their respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at the close of business on a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest, which shall be fixed in the following manner. The Company shall notify the Trustee in writing of the amount of Defaulted Interest proposed to be paid on each Security of such series and the date of the proposed payment, and at the same time the Company shall deposit with the Trustee an amount of money equal to the aggregate amount proposed to be paid in respect of such Defaulted Interest or shall make arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for such deposit prior to the date of the proposed payment, such money when deposited to be held in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled to such Defaulted Interest as provided in this clause. Thereupon the Company shall fix a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest which shall be not more than 15 days and not less than 10 days prior to the date of the proposed payment. The Company shall promptly notify the Trustee in writing of such Special Record Date and, in the name and at the expense of the Company, the Company shall instruct the Trustee to cause notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date therefor to be mailed, first class, postage prepaid or otherwise delivered, to each Holder of a Security of such series at the address of such Holder as it appears in the Security Register not less than 10 days prior to such Special Record Date or, in the case of a Global Security, to be sent in accordance with the applicable procedures of the Depositary. Notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date therefor having been so sent, such Defaulted Interest shall be paid to the Persons in whose names the Securities of such series (or their respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at the close of business on such Special Record Date and shall no longer be payable pursuant to the following clause (b).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The Company may make payment of any Defaulted Interest on the Securities of any series in any other lawful manner not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange on which the Securities of the series in respect of which interest is in default may be listed, and upon such notice as may be required by such exchange (or by the Trustee if the Securities are not listed), if, after written notice given by the Company to the Trustee of the proposed payment pursuant to this clause, such manner of payment shall be deemed practicable by the Trustee.

Subject to the foregoing provisions of this Section and Section 3.05, each Security delivered under this Indenture upon registration of transfer of or in exchange for or in lieu of any other Security shall carry the rights to interest accrued and unpaid, and to accrue, which were carried by such other Security.

The Trustee shall not at any time be under any duty or responsibility to any Holder to determine the Defaulted Interest or with respect to the nature, extent, or calculation of the amount of Defaulted Interest owed, or with respect to the method employed in such calculation of the Defaulted Interest.

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Section 3.08. *Persons Deemed Owners*.

The Company, the Guarantors, the Trustee and any agent of the Company, the Guarantors or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name such Security is registered in the Securities Register as the owner of such Security for the purpose of receiving payment of principal of (and premium, if any) and (subject to Sections 3.05 and 3.07) interest, if any, on such Security and for all other purposes whatsoever, whether or not such Security be overdue, and none of the Company, the Guarantors, the Trustee or any agent of the Company, the Guarantors or the Trustee shall be affected by notice to the contrary.

None of the Company, the Guarantors, the Trustee nor any agent of the Company, the Guarantors or the Trustee will have any responsibility or liability for any aspect of the records relating to or payments made on account of beneficial ownership interests of a Global Security or maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records relating to such beneficial ownership interests.

Section 3.09. *Cancellation*.

All Securities surrendered for payment, redemption, registration of transfer or exchange or for credit against any sinking fund payment shall, if surrendered to any Person other than the Trustee, be delivered to the Trustee and such Securities shall be promptly cancelled by the Trustee. The Company and the Guarantors may at any time deliver to the Trustee for cancellation any Securities previously authenticated and delivered hereunder which the Company or any Guarantor may have acquired in any manner whatsoever, including, without limitation in open market purchases, and all Securities so delivered shall be promptly cancelled by the Trustee. No Securities shall be authenticated in lieu of or in exchange for any Securities cancelled as provided in this Section, except as expressly permitted by this Indenture. All cancelled Securities held by the Trustee shall be cancelled by the Trustee in accordance with its customary procedures.

Section 3.10. *Computation of Interest*.

Except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 3.01 for the Securities of any series, interest, if any, on the Securities of each series shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months.

Section 3.11. *CUSIP Numbers*.

The Company in issuing Securities may use "CUSIP" numbers (if then generally in use), and, if so, the Trustee shall use the "CUSIP" number for the Securities in notices to the Holders as a convenience to such Holders; *provided* that any such notice may state that no representation is made as to the correctness of such numbers either as printed on the Securities or as contained in any notice and that reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers printed on the Securities, and any such notice shall not be affected by any defect in or omission of such numbers. The Company will promptly notify the Trustee in writing of any changes in the "CUSIP" numbers.

ARTICLE 4

**SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE** 

Section 4.01. *Discharge of Liability on Securities; Defeasance*.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Subject to Section 4.01(c), the Company and the Guarantors may terminate their obligations under this Indenture, when:

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) Either:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(A) all the Securities that have been authenticated and delivered have been delivered to the Trustee for cancellation; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(B) all the Securities issued that have not been delivered to the Trustee for cancellation have become due and payable or will become due and payable at their Stated Maturity within one year ("**discharge**") or are to be called for redemption within one year under arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by such Trustee in the Company's name and at the Company's expense, and the Company has deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee sufficient funds to pay and discharge the entire debt on the Securities to pay principal (and premium, if any), interest and any additional amounts;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) The Company has paid or caused to be paid all other sums then due and payable under this Indenture; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) The Company has delivered to the Trustee an Officer's Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that all conditions precedent under this Indenture relating to the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture have been complied with.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Subject to Sections 4.01(c) and 4.03, the Company or any Guarantor at any time may terminate (i) all of its obligations under the Securities and this Indenture relating thereto ("**legal defeasance option**") or (ii) its obligations under Sections 7.02, 7.04, 8.02 and 8.04 and the operation of Sections 5.01(d) ("**covenant defeasance option**"). The Company and any Guarantor may exercise the legal defeasance option notwithstanding a prior exercise of the covenant defeasance option. If the Company or any Guarantor exercises the legal defeasance option with respect to the Securities, payment of the Securities may not be accelerated because of an Event of Default. If the Company exercises the covenant defeasance option, payment of the Securities may not be accelerated because of an Event of Default specified in Section 5.01(d) (only with respect to the covenants terminated pursuant to Section 4.01(b)(ii) above). Upon satisfaction of the conditions set forth herein and upon request of the Company, the Trustee shall acknowledge in writing the discharge of those obligations that the Company terminates.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Notwithstanding Sections 4.01(a) and 4.01(b) above, the Company's obligations in Sections 3.04, 3.05, 3.07, 10.02, 10.03, 10.04, 10.05 and Article 6 shall survive until the Securities have been paid in full. Thereafter, the Company's and the Trustee's obligations in Sections 6.07 shall survive.

Section 4.02. *Conditions to Defeasance*. The Company may exercise its legal defeasance option or its covenant defeasance option with respect to the Securities only if:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) the Company or any Guarantor irrevocably deposits or causes to be deposited with the Trustee as trust funds for the purpose of making the following payments, specifically pledged as security for, and dedicated solely to the benefit of the Holders:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) money in dollars or in such foreign currency in which the Securities are payable in at stated maturity;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) non-callable Government Obligations; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) a combination of money and non-callable Government Obligations,

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in each case sufficient without reinvestment, in the written opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants to pay and discharge, and which shall be applied by the Trustee to pay and discharge, the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on the outstanding Securities on the day on which such payments are due and payable in accordance with the terms of this Indenture and of the Securities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) in the case of the legal defeasance option, the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel stating that (A) the Company and the Guarantors have received from, or there has been published by, the Internal Revenue Service a ruling, or (B) since the date of this Indenture there has been a change in the applicable federal income tax law, in either case to the effect that, and based thereon such Opinion of Counsel shall confirm that, the Holders shall not recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit and defeasance and shall be subject to federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such deposit and defeasance had not occurred;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) in the case of the covenant defeasance option, the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel to the effect that the Holders shall not recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit and defeasance and shall be subject to federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such deposit and defeasance had not occurred;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) no Event of Default or event with which notice of lapse of time or both would become an Event of Default with respect to the Securities has occurred and is continuing at the time of such deposit;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) such legal defeasance or covenant defeasance shall not cause the Trustee to have a conflicting interest for the purposes of the Trust Indenture Act with respect to any of the Company's or the Guarantors' securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) such legal defeasance or covenant defeasance will not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a default under, this Indenture or any other agreement or instrument to which the Company or the Guarantors are a party, or by which the Company or the Guarantors are bound;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) such legal defeasance or covenant defeasance will not cause any securities listed on any registered national stock exchange under the Exchange Act to be delisted;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) such legal defeasance or covenant defeasance will be effected in compliance with any additional terms, conditions or limitations which may be imposed on the Company or the Guarantors in connection therewith; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the Company has delivered to the Trustee an Officer's Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that all conditions precedent with respect to such legal defeasance or covenant defeasance have been complied with.

Before or after a deposit, the Company or any of the Guarantors may make arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for the redemption of any Securities at a future date in accordance with Article 11 and any redemption provisions contained in any supplemental indenture relating to such Securities, which shall be given effect in applying the foregoing.

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Section 4.03. *Application of Trust Money*.

The Trustee shall hold in trust money or Government Obligations deposited with it pursuant to this Article 4. It shall apply the deposited money and the money from Government Obligations either directly or through the Paying Agent as the Trustee may determine and in accordance with this Indenture to the payment of principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on the Securities.

Section 4.04. *Repayment to the Company*.

The Trustee and the Paying Agent shall promptly turn over to the Company or the Guarantors upon written request any excess money or securities held by them at any time. Subject to any applicable abandoned property law, the Trustee and the Paying Agent shall pay to the Company or the Guarantors upon written request any money held by them for the payment of principal or interest that remains unclaimed for two years after the date of payment of such principal and interest, and, thereafter, Holders entitled to the money must look to the Company or the Guarantors for payment as general creditors. Any unclaimed funds held by the Trustee pursuant to this Section 4.04 shall be held uninvested and without any liability for interest.

Section 4.05. *Indemnity for Government Obligations*.

The Company or any Guarantor shall pay and shall indemnify the Trustee against any tax, fee or other charge imposed on or assessed against deposited Government Obligations or the principal and interest received on such Government Obligations other than any such tax, fee or other charge which by law is for the account of the Holders of the defeased Securities; provided that the Trustee shall be entitled to charge any such tax, fee or other charge to such Holder's account.

Section 4.06. *Reinstatement*.

If the Trustee or Paying Agent is unable to apply any money or Government Obligations in accordance with this Article 4 by reason of any legal proceeding or by reason of any order or judgment of any court or governmental authority enjoining, restraining or otherwise prohibiting such application, the Company's and the Guarantors' obligations under the Securities and this Indenture relating thereto shall be revived and reinstated as though no deposit had occurred pursuant to this Article 4 until such time as the Trustee or Paying Agent is permitted to apply all such money or Government Obligations in accordance with this Article 4; provided, however, that (a) if the Company or any Guarantor has made any payment of interest on or principal of any Securities following the reinstatement of its obligations, the Company and the Guarantors shall be subrogated to the rights of the Holders of such Securities to receive such payment from the money or Government Obligations held by the Trustee or Paying Agent and (b) unless otherwise required by any legal proceeding or any order or judgment of any court or governmental authority, the Trustee or Paying Agent shall return all such money and Government Obligations to the Company or the Guarantors promptly after receiving a written request therefor at any time, if such reinstatement of the Company's and the Guarantors' obligations has occurred and continues to be in effect.

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ARTICLE 5

**REMEDIES** 

Section 5.01. *Events of Default*.

"**Event of Default**", wherever used herein with respect to Securities of any series, means any one of the following events (whatever the reason for such Event of Default and whether it shall be voluntary or involuntary or be effected by operation of law or pursuant to any judgment, decree or order of any court or any order, rule or regulation of any administrative or governmental body):

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) default in the payment of any installment of interest upon any Security of that series when it becomes due and payable, and continuance of such default for a period of 60 days; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) default in the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any, on) any Security of that series at its Maturity; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) default in the deposit of any sinking fund payment, when and as due by the terms of a Security of that series; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) default in the performance or breach of any covenant or warranty of the Company or any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities (as applicable) in this Indenture (other than a covenant or warranty a default in whose performance or whose breach is elsewhere in this Section specifically dealt with or which has expressly been included in this Indenture solely for the benefit of a particular series of Securities other than that series) and continuance of such default or breach for a period of 90 days after there has been given, by registered or certified mail, to the Company or such Guarantor, as the case may be, by the Trustee or to the Company or such Guarantor, as the case may be, and the Trustee by the Holders of at least 33% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of the affected series (voting as a single class) a written notice specifying such default or breach and requiring it to be remedied and stating that such notice is a "Notice of Default" hereunder; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) the entry by a court having jurisdiction in the premises of (i) a decree or order for relief in respect of the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary in an involuntary case or proceeding under any applicable federal or state bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other similar law or (ii) a decree or order adjudging the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary a bankrupt or insolvent, or approving as properly filed a petition seeking reorganization, arrangement, adjustment or composition of or in respect of the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary under any applicable federal or state law, or appointing a custodian, receiver, liquidator, assignee, trustee, sequestrator or other similar official of the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary or of any substantial part of their property, or ordering the winding-up or liquidation of its affairs, and the continuance of any such decree or order for relief or any such other decree or order unstayed and in effect for a period of 90 consecutive days; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) the commencement by the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary of a voluntary case or proceeding under any applicable federal or state bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other similar law or of any other case or proceeding to be adjudicated a bankrupt or insolvent, or the consent by any of the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary to the entry of a decree or order for relief in respect of the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary in an involuntary case or proceeding under any applicable federal or state bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other similar law or to the commencement of any bankruptcy or insolvency case or proceeding against the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary, or the filing by the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary of a petition or answer or consent

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seeking reorganization or relief under any applicable federal or state law, or the consent by the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary to the filing of such petition or to the appointment of or taking possession by a custodian, receiver, liquidator, assignee, trustee, sequestrator or other similar official of the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary or of any substantial part of its property, or the making by the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary of an assignment for the benefit of creditors, or the admission by the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary in writing of its inability to pay its debts generally as they become due, or the authorization of any such action by the Board of Directors of the Company, any Guarantor of the applicable series of Securities or any Significant Subsidiary.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) any other Event of Default provided with respect to Securities of that series; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) except as otherwise permitted by this Indenture, any Guarantee of the Securities is held in any judicial proceeding to be unenforceable or invalid or ceases for any reason to be in full force and effect, or any Guarantor denies or disaffirms its obligations under its guarantee of the Securities.

Section 5.02. *Acceleration of Maturity; Rescission and Annulment*.

If an Event of Default with respect to Securities of any series at the time Outstanding occurs and is continuing, then and in every such case the Trustee or the Holders of not less than 33% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all series affected (voting as a single class) may declare the principal amount (or, if the Securities of that series are Original Issue Discount Securities, such portion of the principal amount of such Securities as may be specified in the terms thereof) of all of the Securities of all such series to be due and payable immediately, by a notice in writing to the Company and the Guarantors (and to the Trustee if given by Holders), and upon any such declaration such principal amount (or specified amount) shall become immediately due and payable; *provided*, that if an Event of Default specified in clause (e) or (f) of Section 5.01 hereof occurs with respect to the Company or any Guarantor, the unpaid principal of, premium, if any, and any accrued and unpaid interest on all the Securities shall ipso facto become and be immediately due and payable without further action or notice on the part of the Trustee or any Holder.

At any time after such a declaration of acceleration with respect to Securities of any series has been made and before a judgment or decree for payment of the money due has been obtained by the Trustee as hereinafter in this Article provided, the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of that series, by written notice to the Company, the Guarantors, and the Trustee, may rescind and annul such declaration and its consequences if:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The rescission would not conflict with any judgment or decree;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) the Company or any Guarantor has paid or deposited with the Trustee a sum sufficient to pay

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) all overdue installments of interest on all Securities of that series,

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) the principal of (and premium, if any, on) any Securities of that series which have become due otherwise than by such declaration of acceleration and interest, if any, thereon at the rate or rates prescribed therefor in such Securities,

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) to the extent that payment of such interest is lawful, interest upon any overdue installments of interest at the rate or rates prescribed therefor in such Securities, and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) all sums paid or advanced by the Trustee hereunder and the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel;

and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) all Events of Default with respect to Securities of that series, other than the nonpayment of the principal of Securities of that series which have become due solely by such declaration of acceleration, have been cured or waived as provided in Section 5.13.

No such rescission shall affect any subsequent default or impair any right consequent thereon.

Section 5.03. *Collection of Indebtedness and Suits for Enforcement by Trustee*.

The Company covenants that if

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) default is made in the payment of any installment of interest on any Security when such interest becomes due and payable and such default continues for a period of 60 days, or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) default is made in the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any, on) any Security at its Maturity,

the Company will, upon demand of the Trustee, pay to it, for the benefit of the Holders of such Securities, the whole amount then due and payable on such Securities for principal (and premium, if any) and interest, if any, and, to the extent that payment of such interest shall be legally enforceable, interest on the overdue principal (and premium, if any) and on any overdue installments of interest, at the rate or rates prescribed therefor in such Securities and, in addition thereto, such further amount as shall be sufficient to cover the costs and expenses of collection, including the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel.

If the Company and the Guarantors fail to pay such amounts forthwith upon such demand, the Trustee, in its own name and as trustee of an express trust, may institute a judicial proceeding for the collection of the sums so due and unpaid, may prosecute such proceeding to judgment or final decree and may enforce the same against the Company, any Guarantor or any other obligor upon such Securities and called the moneys adjudged or decreed to be payable in the manner provided by law out of the property of the Company, any Guarantor or any other obligor upon such Securities, wherever situated.

If an Event of Default with respect to Securities of any series occurs and is continuing, the Trustee may in its discretion proceed to protect and enforce its rights and the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series by such appropriate judicial proceedings as the Trustee shall deem most effectual to protect and enforce any such rights, whether for the specific enforcement of any covenant or agreement in this Indenture or in aid of the exercise of any power granted herein, or to enforce any other proper remedy.

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Section 5.04. *Trustee May Enforce Claims*.

In case of any judicial proceeding relative to the Company or a Guarantor (or any other obligor upon the Securities), its respective property or its respective creditors:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) the Trustee shall be entitled and empowered, by intervention in such proceeding or otherwise,

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) to take any and all actions authorized under the Trust Indenture Act in order to have claims of the Holders and the Trustee allowed in any such proceeding, and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) in particular, the Trustee shall be authorized to collect and receive any moneys or other property payable or deliverable on any such claims and to distribute the same in accordance with Section 5.06; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) any custodian, receiver, assignee, trustee, liquidator, sequestrator or other similar official in any such judicial proceeding is hereby authorized by each Holder to make such payments to the Trustee for distribution in accordance with Section 5.06, and, in the event that the Trustee shall consent to the making of such payments directly to the Holders, to pay to the Trustee any amount due to it for the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel, and any other amounts due the Trustee under Section 6.07.

No provision of this Indenture shall be deemed to authorize the Trustee to authorize or consent to or accept or adopt on behalf of any Holder any plan of reorganization, arrangement, adjustment or composition affecting the Securities or the rights of any Holder thereof or to authorize the Trustee to vote in respect of the claim of any Holder in any such proceeding; *provided, however,* that the Trustee may, on behalf of the Holders, vote for the election of a trustee in bankruptcy or similar official and be a member of a creditors' or other similar committee.

Section 5.05. *Trustee May Enforce Claims Without Possession of Securities*.

All rights of action and claims under this Indenture or the Securities may be prosecuted and enforced by the Trustee without the possession of any of the Securities or the production thereof in any proceeding relating thereto, and any such proceeding instituted by the Trustee shall be brought in its own name as trustee of an express trust, and any recovery of judgment shall, after provision for the payment of the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel, be for the ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities in respect of which such judgment has been recovered.

Section 5.06. *Application of Money Collected.*

Any money collected by the Trustee pursuant to this Article shall be applied in the following order, at the date or dates fixed by the Trustee and, in case of the distribution of such money on account of principal (or premium, if any) or interest, if any, upon presentation of the Securities and the notation thereon of the payment if only partially paid and upon surrender thereof if fully paid:

*First*: To the payment of all amounts due the Trustee (acting in any capacity hereunder) and its agents and counsel under Section 6.07;

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*Second*: To the payment of the amounts then due and unpaid for principal of (and premium, if any) and interest, if any, on the Securities in respect of which or for the benefit of which such money has been collected, ratably, without preference or priority of any kind, according to the amounts due and payable on such Securities for principal (and premium, if any) and interest, if any, respectively; and

*Third*: The balance, if any, to the Person or Persons determined to be entitled thereto.

Section 5.07. *Limitation on Suits.* 

No Holder of any Security of any series shall have any right to institute any proceeding, judicial or otherwise, with respect to this Indenture, or for the appointment of a receiver or trustee, or for any other remedy hereunder, unless

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) such Holder has previously given written notice to the Trustee of a continuing Event of Default with respect to the Securities of that series;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) the Holders of not less than 33% in principal amount of the outstanding securities of all series affected (voting as a single class) shall have made written request to the Trustee to institute proceedings in respect of such Event of Default in its own name as Trustee hereunder;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) such Holder or Holders have offered to the Trustee indemnity or security satisfactory to it against the costs, expenses and liabilities to be incurred in compliance with such request;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) the Trustee for 60 days after its receipt of such notice, request and offer of indemnity or security has failed to institute any such proceeding; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) no direction inconsistent with such written request has been given to the Trustee during such 60-day period by the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all series affected (voting as a single class);

it being understood and intended that no one or more of the Holders of Securities of such series shall have any right in any manner whatever by virtue of, or by availing of, any provision of this Indenture to affect, disturb or prejudice the rights of any other such Holders (it being understood that the Trustee does not have an affirmative duty to ascertain whether or not such actions or forbearances are unduly prejudicial to such Holders), or to obtain or to seek to obtain priority or preference over any other such Holders or to enforce any right under this Indenture, except in the manner herein provided and for the equal and ratable benefit of all such Holders.

Section 5.08. *Unconditional Rights of Holders to Receive Principal, Premium and Interest.*

Notwithstanding any other provision in this Indenture, the Holder of any Security shall have the right, which is absolute and unconditional, to receive payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) and (subject to Sections 3.05 and 3.07) interest, if any, on such Security on the Stated Maturity or Maturities expressed in such Security (or, in the case of redemption, on the Redemption Date) and to institute suit for the enforcement of any such payment, and such rights shall not be impaired without the consent of such Holder.

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Section 5.09. *Restoration of Rights and Remedies.*

If the Trustee or any Holder of any Security has instituted any proceeding to enforce any right or remedy under this Indenture and such proceeding has been discontinued or abandoned for any reason, or has been determined adversely to the Trustee or to such Holder, then and in every such case the Company, the Guarantors, the Trustee and the Holders of such Securities shall, subject to any determination in such proceeding, be restored severally and respectively to their former positions hereunder, and thereafter all rights and remedies of the Trustee and the Holders shall continue as though no such proceeding had been instituted.

Section 5.10. *Rights and Remedies Cumulative.*

Except as otherwise provided with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Securities in the last paragraph of Section 3.06, no right or remedy herein conferred upon or reserved to the Trustee or to the Holders of Securities is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and every right and remedy shall, to the extent permitted by law, be cumulative and in addition to every other right and remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion or employment of any right or remedy hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prevent the concurrent assertion or employment of any other appropriate right or remedy.

Section 5.11. *Delay or Omission Not Waiver.*

No delay or omission of the Trustee or of any Holder of any Security to exercise any right or remedy accruing upon any Event of Default shall impair any such right or remedy or constitute a waiver of any such Event of Default or an acquiescence therein. Every right and remedy given by this Article or by law to the Trustee or to the Holders of Securities may be exercised from time to time, and as often as may be deemed expedient, by the Trustee or by the Holders of Securities as the case may be.

Section 5.12. *Control by Holders.*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all affected series (voting as a single class) shall have the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee, or exercising any trust or power conferred on the Trustee, with respect to the Securities of such series, provided that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) such direction shall not be in conflict with any rule of law or with this Indenture, involve the Trustee in personal liability or be unduly prejudicial to the Holders of Securities not joining in the action, and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) the Trustee may take any other action deemed proper by the Trustee which is not inconsistent with such direction.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The Company may set a record date for purposes of determining the identity of Holders entitled to vote or consent to any action by vote or consent authorized or permitted by this Section 5.12 and Section 5.13. Such record date shall be the later of (i) 30 days prior to the first solicitation of such consent or (ii) the date of the most recent list of Holders furnished to the Trustee pursuant to Section 7.01 prior to such solicitation.

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Section 5.13. *Waiver of Past Defaults.* 

Subject to Section 5.02, the Holders of not less than a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any series may on behalf of the Holders of all the Securities of such series waive any past default hereunder with respect to the Securities of such series and its consequences, except a default:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) in the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest, if any, on any Securities of such series, or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) with respect to a covenant or provision hereof which under Article 9 cannot be modified or amended without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security of such series affected.

Upon any such waiver, such default shall cease to exist, and any Event of Default arising therefrom shall be deemed to have been cured, for every purpose of this Indenture; but no such waiver shall extend to any subsequent or other default or impair any right consequent thereon.

Section 5.14. *Undertaking for Costs.* 

All parties to this Indenture agree, and each Holder of any Security by his acceptance thereof shall be deemed to have agreed, that any court may in its discretion require, in any suit for the enforcement of any right or remedy under this Indenture, or in any suit against the Trustee for any action taken, suffered or omitted by it as Trustee, the filing by any party litigant in such suit of an undertaking to pay the costs of such suit, and that such court may in its discretion assess reasonable costs, including reasonable attorneys' fees, against any party litigant in such suit, having due regard for the merits and good faith of the claims or defenses made by such party litigant; but the provisions of this Section shall not apply to any suit instituted by the Trustee, to any suit instituted by any Holder, or group of Holders, holding in the aggregate more than 10% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all affected series, or to any suit instituted by any Holder of any Security for the enforcement of the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest, if any, on any Security on or after the Stated Maturity or Maturities expressed in such security (or, in the case of redemption, on or after the Redemption Date).

Section 5.15. *Waiver of Stay or Extension Laws.*

Each of the Company and the Guarantors covenant (to the extent that each of them may lawfully do so) that it will not at any time insist upon, or plead, or in any manner whatsoever claim or take the benefit or advantage of, any stay or extension law wherever enacted, now or at any time hereafter in force, which may affect the covenants or the performance of this Indenture; and each of the Company and the Guarantors (to the extent that each of them may lawfully do so) hereby expressly waives all benefit or advantage of any such law, and covenants that it will not hinder, delay or impede the execution of any power herein granted to the Trustee, but will suffer and permit the execution of every such power as though no such law had been enacted.

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ARTICLE 6

**THE TRUSTEE** 

Section 6.01. *Certain Duties and Responsibilities*.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Except during the continuance of an Event of Default with respect to the Securities of any series,

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the Trustee undertakes to perform such duties and only such duties as are specifically set forth in this Indenture with respect to such series, and no implied covenants or obligations shall be read into this Indenture against the Trustee; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) the Trustee may conclusively rely, as to the truth of the statements and the correctness of the opinions expressed therein, upon certificates or opinions furnished to the Trustee and conforming to the requirements of this Indenture; but in the case of any such certificates or opinions which by any provisions hereof are specifically required to be furnished to the Trustee, the Trustee shall only be under a duty to examine the same to determine whether or not they conform to the requirements of this Indenture (but need not confirm or investigate the accuracy of mathematical calculations or other facts stated therein).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) In case an Event of Default has occurred with respect to Securities of any series and is continuing, the Trustee shall exercise such of the rights and powers vested in it by this Indenture with respect to such series of Securities, and use the same degree of care and skill in their exercise, as a prudent person would exercise or use under the circumstances in the conduct of his or her own affairs.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) No provision of this Indenture shall be construed to relieve the Trustee from liability for its own negligent action, its own negligent failure to act, or its own willful misconduct, to the extent the same shall have been finally adjudicated by a court of competent jurisdiction, except that

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) this Subsection shall not be construed to limit the effect of Subsection (a) of this Section;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) the Trustee shall not be liable for any act, omission or error of judgment made in good faith by a Responsible Officer, unless it shall be proved that the Trustee was negligent in ascertaining the pertinent facts;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) the Trustee shall not be liable with respect to any action taken, suffered or omitted to be taken by it in good faith in accordance with the direction of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any series, determined as provided in Section 5.12, relating to the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee, or exercising any trust or power conferred upon the Trustee, under this Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) no provision of this Indenture shall require the Trustee to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise incur any liability, financial or otherwise, in the performance of any of its duties hereunder or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers, if it shall have reasonable grounds for believing that repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity against such risk or liability is not reasonably assured to it.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) Whether or not therein expressly so provided, every provision of this Indenture relating to the conduct or affecting the liability of or affording protection to the Trustee shall be subject to the provisions of this Section.

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Section 6.02. *Notice of Defaults*.

Within 90 days after a Responsible Officer has actual knowledge of the occurrence of any default hereunder with respect to the Securities of any series, the Trustee shall transmit in the manner and to the extent provided in Section 7.03, notice of such default hereunder known to the Trustee, unless such default shall have been cured or waived; *provided*, *however*, that, except in the case of a default in the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest, if any, on any Security of such series or in the payment of any sinking fund installment with respect to Securities of such series, the Trustee shall be protected in withholding such notice if and so long as the Trustee in good faith determines that the withholding of such notice is in the interest of the Holders of Securities of such series, and *provided*, *further*, that in the case of any default of the character specified in Section 5.01(d) with respect to Securities of such series, no such notice to Holders shall be given until at least 60 days after the occurrence thereof. For the purpose of this Section, the term "**default**" means any event which is, or after notice or lapse of time or both would become, an Event of Default with respect to Securities of such series.

Section 6.03. *Certain Rights of Trustee*.

Except as otherwise provided in Section 6.01 and subject to the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) the Trustee may conclusively rely and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting upon any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction, consent, order, bond, debenture, note, coupon, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or document believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper party or parties;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) any request or direction of the Company or any Guarantor mentioned herein shall be sufficiently evidenced by a Company Request or Company Order or as otherwise expressly provided herein and any resolution of the Board of Directors may be sufficiently evidenced by a Board Resolution;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) whenever in the administration of this Indenture the Trustee shall deem it desirable that a matter be proved or established prior to taking, suffering or omitting any action hereunder, the Trustee (unless other evidence be herein specifically presented) may, in the absence of negligence or willful misconduct on its part, to the extent the same shall have been finally adjudicated by a court of competent jurisdiction, conclusively rely upon an Officer's Certificate;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) the Trustee may consult with counsel of its own selection and the advice of such counsel or any Opinion of Counsel shall be full and complete authorization and protection in respect of any action taken, suffered or omitted by it hereunder in good faith and in reliance thereon;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) the Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers vested in it by this Indenture at the request or direction of any of the Holders pursuant to this Indenture, unless such Holders of Securities of any series shall have offered, and if requested, provided to the Trustee security or indemnity satisfactory to it against the costs, expenses and liabilities which might be incurred by it in compliance with such request or direction;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) the Trustee shall not be bound to make any investigation into the facts or matters stated in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction, consent, order, bond, debenture, note, coupon, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or document, but the Trustee, in its discretion, may make such further inquiry or investigation into such facts or matters as it may see fit, and, if the Trustee shall determine to make such further

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inquiry or investigation, it shall be entitled to examine the books, records and premises of the Company and the Guarantors, personally or by agent or attorney at the sole cost of the Company and shall incur no liability or additional liability of any kind by reason of such inquiry or investigation; provided that (1) the Trustee provide the Company and the Guarantors with reasonable notice of any such examination, (2) such examination is to take place at a location and time reasonable in the circumstances, and (3) the Trustee have good cause and be acting in good faith in the interest of Holders in carrying out such examination;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) the Trustee may execute any of the trusts or powers hereunder or perform any duties hereunder either directly or by or through agents or attorneys and the Trustee shall not be responsible for any acts or omissions on the part of any agent or attorney appointed with due care by it hereunder;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) the Trustee's immunities and protections from liability and its rights to compensation and indemnification in connection with the performance of its duties under this Indenture shall extend to the Trustee's officers, directors, agents and employees and its services as Paying Agent, Security Registrar or any other role assumed by the Trustee hereunder or to which it has been appointed with respect to the Securities issued hereunder. Such immunities and protections and right to indemnification, together with the Trustee's right to compensation, shall survive the Trustee's resignation or removal and final payment of the Securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the Trustee is not required to give any bond or surety with respect to the performance of its duties or the exercise of its powers under this Indenture;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(j) the Trustee shall not be deemed to have knowledge of any Default or Event of Default hereunder except (i) during any period it is serving as Paying Agent for the Securities of a series, any Event of Default pursuant to Section 5.01(a) or (b), or (ii) any Default or Event of Default of which a Responsible Officer of the Trustee shall have received written notification at the Corporate Trust Office from the Company, any Guarantor, or the Holders of at least 33% in aggregate principal amount of all affected Securities of the series with respect to which such Default or Event of Default has occurred (voting as a single class) and is continuing and such notice references the Securities and this Indenture or obtained "actual knowledge," which shall mean the actual fact or statement of knowing by a Responsible Officer of the Trustee without independent investigation with respect thereto;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(k) the permissive rights of the Trustee enumerated herein shall not be construed as duties;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(l) the Trustee may request that the Company or any Guarantor deliver an Officer's Certificate setting forth the names of individuals and/or titles of officers or other Persons authorized at such time to take specified actions pursuant to this Indenture, which Officer's Certificate may be signed by any person authorized to sign an Officer's Certificate, including any person specified as so authorized in any such certificate previously delivered and not superseded;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(m) the Trustee shall not be liable for any action taken, suffered, or omitted to be taken by it in good faith and reasonably believed by it to be authorized or within the discretion or rights or powers conferred upon it by this Indenture; and

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(n) in no event shall the Trustee be responsible or liable for special, indirect, incidental, punitive or consequential loss or damage of any kind whatsoever (including, but not limited to, loss of profit) irrespective of whether the Trustee has been advised of the likelihood of such loss or damage and regardless of the form of action.

Section 6.04. *Not Responsible for Recitals or Issuance of Securities*.

The recitals contained herein and in the Securities, except the Trustee's certificates of authentication, shall be taken as the statements of the Company and the Guarantors, and the Trustee assumes no responsibility for their correctness. The Trustee makes no representations as to the validity or sufficiency of this Indenture or of the Securities. The Trustee shall not be accountable for the use or application by the Company or the Guarantors of Securities or the proceeds thereof.

Section 6.05. *May Hold Securities*.

The Trustee, any Paying Agent, any Security Registrar or any other agent of the Company, in its individual or any other capacity, may become the owner or pledgee of Securities and, subject to Sections 6.08 and 6.13, may otherwise deal with the Company with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee, Paying Agent, Security Registrar or such other agent.

Section 6.06. *Money Held in Trust*.

Money held by the Trustee in trust hereunder need not be segregated from other funds except to the extent required by law. The Trustee shall be under no liability for interest on any money received by it hereunder except as otherwise agreed in writing with the Company and the Guarantors.

Section 6.07. *Compensation and Reimbursement*.

Each of the Company and the Guarantors agrees:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) to pay to the Trustee (in any capacity hereunder) from time to time compensation as agreed between the Company and the Trustee from time to time in writing for all services rendered by it hereunder (which compensation shall not be limited by any provision of law in regard to the compensation of a trustee of an express trust);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) except as otherwise expressly provided herein, to reimburse the Trustee upon its request for all reasonable expenses, disbursements and advances incurred or made by the Trustee in accordance with any provision of this Indenture (including the reasonable compensation and the expenses and disbursements of its agents and counsel), except any such expense, disbursement or advance as may be attributable to its negligence or willful misconduct; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) to indemnify the Trustee (in any capacity hereunder) or any predecessor Trustee and their respective agents for, and to hold them harmless against, any loss, liability, damage, claim or expense (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys' fees and expenses and the costs of enforcement of this Indenture or any provision thereof) incurred without negligence or willful misconduct on its part, to the extent the same shall have been finally adjudicated by a court of competent jurisdiction, arising out of or in connection with the acceptance or administration of the trust or trusts hereunder, including the costs and expenses of defending itself against any claim (whether asserted by the Company, any Guarantor, or any Holder or any other Person) or liability in connection with the exercise or performance of any of its powers or duties hereunder, or in connection with enforcing the provisions of this Section.

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The obligations of the Company and the Guarantors under this Section shall constitute additional indebtedness hereunder and shall survive the termination, satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture and the resignation or removal of the Trustee. Such additional indebtedness shall be a senior claim to that of the Securities upon all property and funds held or collected by the Trustee as such, except funds held in trust for the benefit of the Holders of particular Securities, and the Securities are hereby subordinated to such senior claim. If the Trustee incurs expenses after the occurrence of a default specified in Section 5.01(e) or (f), such expenses are intended to constitute expenses of administration under any bankruptcy law.

Section 6.08. *Disqualification; Conflicting Interests.* 

If the Trustee has or shall acquire a conflicting interest within the meaning of the Trust Indenture Act, the Trustee shall either eliminate such interest or resign, to the extent and in the manner provided by and subject to the provisions of, the Trust Indenture Act.

Section 6.09. *Corporate Trustee Required; Eligibility.* 

There shall at all times be a Trustee hereunder which shall be a corporation organized and doing business under the laws of the United States or of any State or the District of Columbia, authorized under such laws to exercise corporate trust powers, having a combined capital and surplus of at least $50,000,000, subject to supervision or examination by Federal, State or District of Columbia authority and having its Corporate Trust Office, in the United States of America. If such corporation publishes reports of condition at least annually, pursuant to law or to the requirements of the aforesaid supervising or examining authority, then for the purposes of this Section, the combined capital and surplus of such corporation shall be deemed to be its combined capital and surplus as set forth in its most recent report of condition so published. If at any time the Trustee shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, it shall resign immediately in the manner and with the effect hereinafter specified in this Article. Neither the Company nor any Affiliate of the Company may serve as Trustee.

Section 6.10. *Resignation and Removal; Appointment of a Successor.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) No resignation or removal of the Trustee and no appointment of a successor Trustee pursuant to this Article shall become effective until the acceptance of appointment by the successor Trustee under Section 6.11.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The Trustee may resign at any time with respect to the Securities of one or more series by giving written notice thereof to the Company and the Guarantors. If the instrument of acceptance by a successor Trustee required by Section 6.11 shall not have been delivered to the Trustee within 30 days after the giving of such notice of resignation, the resigning Trustee may, at the expense of the Company, petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The Trustee may be removed at any time with respect to the Securities of any series by Act of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series delivered to the Trustee and to the Company.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) If at any time:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the Trustee shall fail to comply with Section 6.08 after written request therefor by the Company, any Guarantor or by any Holder who has been a bona fide Holder of a Security for at least six months; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) the Trustee shall cease to be eligible under Section 6.09 and shall fail to resign after written request therefor by the Company, any such Guarantor or by any such Holder; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) the Trustee shall become incapable of acting or shall be adjudged a bankrupt or insolvent or a receiver of the Trustee or of its property shall be appointed or any public officer shall take charge or control of the Trustee or of its property or affairs for the purpose of rehabilitation, conservation or liquidation;

then, in any such case, (A) the Company or such Guarantor, as the case may be, may remove the Trustee with respect to all Securities, or (B) subject to Section 5.14, any Holder who has been a bona fide Holder of a Security for at least six months may, on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated, petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the removal of the Trustee with respect to all Securities and the appointment of a successor Trustee or Trustees. If the instrument of acceptance by a successor Trustee required by Section 6.11 shall not have been delivered to the Trustee within 30 days after the giving of such notice of removal, the Trustee being so removed may, at the expense of the Company, petition a court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) If the Trustee shall resign, be removed or become incapable of acting, or if a vacancy shall occur in the office of Trustee for any cause, with respect to the Securities of one or more series, the Company or any Guarantor, as the case may be, shall promptly appoint a successor Trustee or Trustees with respect to the Securities of that or those series (it being understood that any such successor Trustee may be appointed with respect to the Securities of one or more or all of such series and that at any time there shall be only one Trustee with respect to the Securities of any particular series) and shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 6.11. If, within one year after such resignation, removal or incapability, or the occurrence of such vacancy, a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series shall be appointed by Act of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series delivered to the Company, the Guarantors and the retiring Trustee, the successor Trustee so appointed shall, forthwith upon its acceptance of such appointment in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 6.11, become the successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series and to that extent supersede the successor Trustee appointed by the Company or such Guarantor. If no successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series shall have been so appointed by the Company, such Guarantor or the Holders of Securities of that series and accepted appointment in the manner required by Section 6.11, any Holder of a Security who has been a bona fide Holder of a Security of such series for at least six months, subject to Section 5.14, may, on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated, petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) The Company and the Guarantors shall give notice of each resignation and each removal of the Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series and each appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series in the manner provided in Section 1.06. Each notice shall include the name of the successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series and the address of its Corporate Trust Office.

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Section 6.11. *Acceptance of Appointment by Successor.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) In case of the appointment hereunder of a successor Trustee with respect to all Securities, every such successor Trustee so appointed shall execute, acknowledge and deliver to the Company, the Guarantors and to the retiring Trustee an instrument accepting such appointment, and thereupon the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective and such successor Trustee, without any further act, deed or conveyance, shall become vested with all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee; but, on written request of the Company, any Guarantor or the successor Trustee, such retiring Trustee shall, upon payment of the charges due it pursuant to Section 6.07, execute and deliver an instrument transferring to such successor Trustee all the rights, powers and trusts of the retiring Trustee, and shall duly assign, transfer and deliver to such successor Trustee all property and money held by such retiring Trustee hereunder. Upon request of any such successor Trustee, the Company and the Guarantors shall execute any and all instruments for more fully and certainly vesting in and confirming to such successor Trustee all such rights, powers and trusts. The Trustee shall have no liability or responsibility for any action or inaction of a successor Trustee.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) In case of the appointment hereunder of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of one or more (but not all) series, the Company, the Guarantors, the retiring Trustee and each successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of one or more series shall execute and deliver an indenture supplemental hereto wherein each successor Trustee shall accept such appointment and which (i) shall contain such provisions as shall be necessary or desirable to transfer and confirm to, and to vest in, each successor Trustee all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates, (ii) if the retiring Trustee is not retiring with respect to all Securities, shall contain such provisions as shall be deemed necessary or desirable to confirm that all the rights, powers, trusts and duties, including its right to be indemnified, of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series as to which the retiring Trustee is not retiring shall continue to be vested in the retiring Trustee, and (iii) shall add to or change any of the provisions of this Indenture as shall be necessary to provide for or facilitate the administration of the trusts hereunder by more than one Trustee, it being understood that nothing herein or in such supplemental indenture shall constitute such Trustees co-trustees of the same trust and that each such Trustee shall be trustee of a trust or trusts hereunder separate and apart from any trust or trusts hereunder administered by any other such Trustee; and upon the execution and delivery of such supplemental indenture the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective to the extent provided therein and each such successor Trustee, without any further act, deed or conveyance, shall become vested with all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates; but, on request of the Company, any Guarantor or any successor Trustee, such retiring Trustee shall duly assign, transfer and deliver to such successor Trustee all property and money held by such retiring Trustee hereunder with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Upon request of any such successor Trustee, the Company and the Guarantors shall execute any and all instruments for more fully and certainly vesting in and confirming to such successor Trustee all such rights, powers and trusts referred to in paragraph (a) or (b) of this Section, as the case may be.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) No successor Trustee shall accept its appointment unless at the time of such acceptance such successor Trustee shall be qualified and eligible under this Article.

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Section 6.12. *Merger, Conversion, Consolidation or Succession to Business.* 

Any corporation into which the Trustee may be merged or converted or with which it may be consolidated, or any corporation resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which the Trustee shall be a party, or any corporation succeeding to all or substantially all of the corporate trust business of the Trustee, shall be the successor of the Trustee hereunder, provided such corporation shall be otherwise qualified and eligible under this Article, without the execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of any of the parties hereto. In case any Securities shall have been authenticated, but not delivered, by the Trustee then in office, any successor by merger, conversion or consolidation to such authenticating Trustee may adopt such authentication and deliver the Securities so authenticated with the same effect as if such successor Trustee had itself authenticated such Securities.

Section 6.13. *Preferential Collection of Claims Against Company.* 

The Trustee shall comply with the provisions of Section 311 of the Trust Indenture Act.

Section 6.14. *Appointment of Authenticating Agent.* 

The Trustee may appoint an Authenticating Agent or Authenticating Agents with respect to one or more series of Securities which shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Trustee to authenticate Securities of such series issued upon original issue and upon exchange, registration of transfer or partial redemption thereof or pursuant to Section 3.06, and Securities so authenticated shall be entitled to the benefits of this Indenture and shall be valid and obligatory for all purposes as if authenticated by the Trustee hereunder. Wherever reference is made in this Indenture to the authentication and delivery of Securities by the Trustee or the Trustee's certificate of authentication, such reference shall be deemed to include authentication and delivery on behalf of the Trustee by an Authenticating Agent and a certificate of authentication executed on behalf of the Trustee by an Authenticating Agent. Each Authenticating Agent shall be acceptable to the Company and the Guarantors and shall at all times be a corporation organized and doing business under the laws of the United States of America, any State, territory or the District of Columbia, authorized under such laws to act as Authenticating Agent, having a combined capital and surplus of not less than $50,000,000 and subject to supervision or examination by Federal or State authority. If such Authenticating Agent files reports of condition at least annually, pursuant to law or to the requirements of said supervising or examining authority, then for the purposes of this Section, the combined capital and surplus of such Authenticating Agent shall be deemed to be its combined capital and surplus as set forth in its most recent report of condition so filed.

If at any time an Authenticating Agent shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, such Authenticating Agent shall resign immediately in the manner and with the effect specified in this Section.

Any corporation into which an Authenticating Agent may be merged or converted or with which it may be consolidated, or any corporation resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which such Authenticating Agent shall be a party, or any corporation succeeding to all or substantially all of the corporate trust business of an Authenticating Agent, shall be the successor Authenticating Agent hereunder, provided such corporation shall be otherwise eligible under this Section, without the execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of the Trustee or the Authenticating Agent.

An Authenticating Agent may resign at any time by giving written notice thereof to the Trustee and to the Company and the Guarantors. The Trustee may at any time terminate the agency of an Authenticating Agent by giving written notice thereof to such Authenticating Agent and to

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the Company and the Guarantors. Upon receiving such a notice of resignation or upon such a termination, or in case at any time such Authenticating Agent shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, the Trustee may appoint a successor Authenticating Agent which shall be acceptable to the Company and the Guarantors and shall give notice of such appointment in the manner provided in Section 1.06 to all Holders of Securities of the series with respect to which such Authenticating Agent will serve. Any successor Authenticating Agent upon acceptance of its appointment hereunder shall become vested with all the rights, powers and duties of its predecessor hereunder, with like effect as if originally named as an Authenticating Agent.

No successor Authenticating Agent shall be appointed unless eligible under the provisions of this Section.

The Company agrees to pay to each Authenticating Agent from time to time compensation as agreed between the Company and each such Authenticating Agent for its services under this Section.

If an appointment with respect to one or more series is made pursuant to this Section, the Securities of such series may have endorsed thereon, in addition to the Trustee's certificate of authentication, an alternative certificate of authentication in the following form:

This is one of the Securities referred to in the within-mentioned Indenture.

Dated:

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|:---|:---|
| U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as Trustee | U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as Trustee |
| By: |  |
|  | As Authenticating Agent |

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By: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br> Authorized Signatory

ARTICLE 7

**HOLDERS' LISTS AND REPORTS BY TRUSTEE AND COMPANY** 

Section 7.01. *Company to Furnish Trustee Names and Addresses of Holders of Securities*.

The Company shall furnish or cause to be furnished to the Trustee with respect to the Securities of each series:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) semi-annually, not more than 15 days after each Regular Record Date, or in the case of any series of Securities on which semi-annual interest is not payable, not more than 15 days after such semi-annual dates as may be specified by the Trustee, a list, in such form as the Trustee may reasonably require, of the names and addresses of the Holders of such Securities as of such Regular Record Date or such semi-annual date, as the case may be, and

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) at such other times as the Trustee may request in writing, within 30 days after the receipt by the Company of any such request, a list of similar form and content as of a date not more than 15 days prior to the time such list is furnished;

*provided*, *however*, that so long as the Trustee is the Security Registrar, no such list need be furnished.

Section 7.02. *Preservation of Information; Communications to Holders*.

The Trustee shall preserve, in as current a form as is reasonably practicable, the names and addresses of Holders contained in the most recent list furnished to the Trustee as provided in Section 7.01 and the names and addresses of Holders received by the Trustee in its capacity as Security Registrar. The Trustee may destroy any list furnished to it as provided in Section 7.01 upon receipt of a new list so furnished.

The rights of Holders to communicate with other Holders with respect to their rights under this Indenture or under the Securities, and the corresponding rights and privileges of the Trustee, shall be as provided by Section 312(b) of the Trust Indenture Act.

Every Holder of Securities, by receiving and holding the same, agrees with the Company, the Guarantors and the Trustee that none of the Company, the Guarantors or the Trustee or any agent of any of them shall be held accountable by reason of any disclosure of information as to the names and addresses of Holders made pursuant to Section 312(c) of the Trust Indenture Act.

Section 7.03. *Reports by the Trustee*.

The Trustee shall transmit to Holders such reports concerning the Trustee and its actions under this Indenture as may be required pursuant to the Trust Indenture Act at the time and in the manner provided pursuant thereto. If required by Section 313(a) of the Trust Indenture Act, the Trustee shall, within 60 days after each July 15 following the date of this Indenture, deliver to Holders a brief report, dated as of such July 15, which complies with the provisions of such Section 313(a). The Trustee shall also comply with Section 313(b) and Section 313(c) of the Trust Indenture Act.

A copy of each such report shall, at the time of such transmission to Holders, be filed by the Trustee with each stock exchange upon which any Securities are listed in accordance with Section 313(d) of the Trust Indenture Act, with the Commission, the Company (Attn: Treasurer) and the Guarantors (Attn: Treasurer). The Company will promptly notify the Trustee in writing whenever any Securities are listed on any stock exchange and any delisting thereof.

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Section 7.04. *Reports by Company and Guarantors*.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The Company or any Guarantor, as applicable, shall:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) file with the Trustee, within 15 days after the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, files the same with the Commission, copies of the quarterly and annual reports and of the information, documents and other reports (or copies of such portions of any of the foregoing as the Commission may from time to time by rules and regulations prescribe) which the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, may be required to file with the Commission pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; or, if the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, is not required to file information, documents or reports pursuant to either of said Sections, then it will file with the Trustee and the Commission, in accordance with rules and regulations prescribed from time to time by the Commission, such of the supplementary and periodic information, documents and reports which may be required pursuant to Section 13 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, in respect of a security listed and registered on a national securities exchange as may be prescribed from time to time in such rules and regulations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) file with the Trustee and the Commission, in accordance with rules and regulations prescribed from time to time by the Commission, such additional information, documents, and reports with respect to compliance by the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, with the conditions and covenants of this Indenture as may be required from time to time by such rules and regulations; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) transmit by mail or electronically to all Holders, within 30 days after the filing thereof with the Trustee, in the manner and to the extent provided in Section 7.03 with respect to reports pursuant to Section 7.03, such summaries of any information, documents and reports required to be filed by the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, pursuant to paragraphs (i) and (ii) of this Section as may be required by rules and regulations prescribed from time to time by the Commission.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) furnish to the Trustee, not less often than annually, the certificate referred to in Section 10.04. For purposes of such certificate, compliance by the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable, with respect to the conditions and covenants under this Indenture shall be determined without regard to any period of grace or requirement of notice provided under this Indenture.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) All required information, documents and reports referred to in clauses (a)(i),(a)(ii) and (a)(iii) above shall be deemed filed with the Trustee and transmitted to the Holders at the time such information, documents and reports are publicly filed with the Commission via the Commission's Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval (EDGAR) filing system (or any successor system); provided, however, that the Trustee shall have no obligation whatsoever to determine whether or not such information, documents or reports have been filed pursuant to the EDGAR filing system (or its successor).

Delivery of such reports, information and documents to the Trustee is for informational purposes only and the Trustee's receipt of such reports shall not constitute actual or constructive notice of any information contained therein or determinable from information contained therein, including the Company's or any Guarantor's compliance with any of its covenants hereunder (as to which the Trustee is entitled to rely exclusively on Officer's Certificates). The Trustee will have no liability or responsibility for the filing, timeliness or content of any such reports. The Trustee will not be obligated to monitor or confirm, on a continuing basis or otherwise, the Company's or the Guarantors' compliance with the covenants or with respect to any reports or other documents filed with the SEC or EDGAR or the Company's or any Guarantor's website under this Indenture, or participate in any conference calls.

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ARTICLE 8

**CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, CONVEYANCE, TRANSFER OR LEASE** 

Section 8.01. *Company May Consolidate, Etc., Only on Certain Terms*.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The Company shall not (x) merge into or consolidate with any other Person or Persons or (y) sell, lease, transfer, convey or otherwise dispose of its properties and assets substantially as an entirety to any other Person or Persons in one transaction or a series of related transactions (in each of (x) and (y), such other Person or Persons the "**Successor Company**"), unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the Successor Company is organized under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) the Successor Company expressly assumes, by an indenture supplemental hereto, executed and delivered to the Trustee, in form satisfactory to the Trustee, the Company's obligation for the due and punctual payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on the Securities and the performance and observance of every covenant of the Securities and this Indenture on the part of the Company to be performed or observed;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) immediately after giving effect to such transaction, no Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) the Company has delivered to the Trustee an Officer's Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that such merger, consolidation, sale, lease, transfer, conveyance or other disposal and, if a supplemental indenture is required in connection with such transaction, such supplemental indenture comply with this Article and that all conditions precedent herein provided for relating to such transaction have been complied with.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The restrictions in Sections 8.01(a) hereof shall not be applicable to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the merger or consolidation of the Company with an affiliate of the Company if the Board of Directors determines in good faith that the purpose of such transaction is principally to change the state of incorporation of the Company or convert the form of organization of the Company to another form; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) the merger of the Company with or into a single direct or indirect wholly owned subsidiary of the Company pursuant to Section 251(g) (or any successor provision) of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (or similar provision of the Company's state of incorporation); or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) any change in form or state of organization of the Company other than pursuant to a merger.

Section 8.02. *Successor Substituted*.

Upon any merger of the Company into, or consolidation of the Company with, any other Person or Persons or any sale, lease, transfer, conveyance or other disposal of its properties and assets substantially as an entirety to any other Person or Persons in one transaction or a series of related transactions in accordance with Section 8.01, the Successor Company shall succeed to, and be substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of, the Company under this Indenture with the same effect as if such Successor Company had been named as the Company herein, and thereafter, the predecessor Person shall be released of all obligations to pay principal and interest on the Securities and all other obligations and covenants under this Indenture and the Securities.

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Section 8.03. *Any Guarantor May Consolidate, Etc., Only on Certain Terms*.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Any Guarantor shall not (x) merge into or consolidate with any other Person or Persons or (y) sell, lease, transfer, convey or otherwise dispose of its properties and assets substantially as an entirety to any other Person or Persons in one transaction or a series of related transactions (in each of (x) and (y), such other Person or Persons the "**Successor Guarantor**"), unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) to the extent the Guarantor is organized under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia, the Successor Guarantor is organized under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) the Successor Guarantor expressly assumes, by an indenture supplemental hereto, executed and delivered to the Trustee, in form satisfactory to the Trustee, the Guarantor's obligation for the due and punctual payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on the Securities and the performance and observance of every covenant of the Securities and this Indenture on the part of such Guarantor to be performed or observed;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) immediately after giving effect to such transaction, no Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) such Guarantor has delivered to the Trustee an Officer's Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that such consolidation, merger, sale, conveyance, transfer or lease and, if a supplemental indenture is required in connection with such transaction, such supplemental indenture comply with this Article and that all conditions precedent herein provided for relating to such transaction have been complied with.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The restrictions in Sections 8.03(a) hereof shall not be applicable to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the merger or consolidation of such Guarantor with an affiliate of such Guarantor if the Board of Directors determines in good faith that the purpose of such transaction is principally to change the state of incorporation of such Guarantor or convert the form of organization of such Guarantor to another form; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) the merger of such Guarantor with or into a single direct or indirect wholly owned subsidiary of the Company pursuant to Section 251(g) (or any successor provision) of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (or similar provision of such Guarantor's state of incorporation); or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) any change in form or state of organization of such Guarantor other than pursuant to a merger.

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Section 8.04. *Successor Substituted for any Guarantor*.

Upon any merger of the Guarantor into, or consolidation of any Guarantor with, any other Person or Persons or any sale, lease, transfer, conveyance or other disposal of its properties and assets substantially as an entirety to any other Person or Persons in one transaction or a series of related transactions in accordance with Section 8.03, the Successor Guarantor shall succeed to, and be substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of, such Guarantor under this Indenture with the same effect as if such Successor Guarantor had been named as such Guarantor herein, and thereafter, the predecessor Person shall be released of all obligations to pay principal and interest on the Securities and all other obligations and covenants under this Indenture and the Securities.

ARTICLE 9

**SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES** 

Section 9.01. *Supplemental Indentures Without Consent of Holders*.

Without the consent of any Holder, the Company, the Guarantors and the Trustee, at any time and from time to time, may enter into one or more indentures supplemental hereto, in form satisfactory to the Trustee, for any of the following purposes:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) to cure any ambiguity, omission, defect or inconsistency;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) to provide for uncertificated Securities in addition to or in place of certificated Securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) to comply with the requirements of the SEC in order to effect or maintain the qualification of this Indenture under the Trust Indenture Act;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) to evidence and provide for the acceptance of appointment by a successor Trustee;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) to conform the terms of this Indenture, the Securities and/or the Guarantees to any provision or other description of the Securities or Guarantees, as the case may be, contained in the offering memorandum for the Securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) to provide for the assumption by a successor corporation, partnership, trust or limited liability company of the Company's or the Guarantors' obligations under this Indenture, the Guarantees and the Securities, in each case in compliance with the provisions thereof;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) to provide for the issuance of any additional Securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) to comply with the rules of any applicable securities depository;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) to make any change that would provide any additional rights or benefits to the Holders (including to secure the Securities, add guarantees with respect thereto, transfer any property to or with the Trustee, add to the Company's covenants for the benefit of the Holders, add any additional events of default for the Securities, or surrender any right or power conferred upon the Company or the Guarantors) or that does not adversely affect the legal rights hereunder of any Holder in any material respect;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(j) change or eliminate any restrictions on the payment of principal (and premium, if any) on Securities in registered form; provided that any such action shall not adversely affect the interests of the Holders in any material respect; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(k) supplement any provision of this Indenture as shall be necessary to permit or facilitate the defeasance and discharge of the Securities in accordance with this Indenture; provided that such action shall not adversely affect the interests of any of the Holders in any material respect.

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Section 9.02. *Supplemental Indentures With Consent of Holders*.

With the consent of the Holders of not less than a majority in principal amount of the Securities then-outstanding and affected by such supplemental indenture (voting as a single class), by Act of said Holders delivered to the Company, the Guarantors and the Trustee, the Company, the Guarantors and the Trustee may enter into an indenture or indentures supplemental hereto for the purpose of adding any provisions to or changing in any manner or eliminating any of the provisions of this Indenture or of modifying in any manner the rights of the Holders under this Indenture; provided, however, that no such supplemental indenture shall, without the consent of the Holder of each Security then-outstanding and affected thereby,

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) reduce the principal amount of outstanding Securities whose Holders must consent to an amendment;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) reduce the rate of, change or have the effect of changing the time for payment of interest, including defaulted interest, on the Securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) reduce the principal of, change or have the effect of changing the fixed maturity of the Securities, or change the date on which the Securities may be subject to redemption or repurchase or reduce the redemption price or repurchase price therefor;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) make the Securities payable in currency other than that stated in the Securities or change the place of payment of the Securities from that stated in the Securities or in this Indenture;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) make any change in provisions of this Indenture protecting the right of each Holder to receive payment of principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on the Securities on or after the due date thereof or to bring suit to enforce such payment, or permitting Holders holding a majority in principal amount of the Securities to waive Defaults or Events of Default;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) make any change to or modify in any manner adverse to the Holders the terms and conditions of the obligations of the Guarantors under this Indenture (as modified by any supplemental indenture);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) make any change to or modify the ranking of the Securities that would adversely affect the Holders; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) make any change in these amendment and waiver provisions.

A supplemental indenture which changes or eliminates any covenant or other provision of this Indenture which has expressly been included solely for the benefit of one or more particular series of Securities, or which modifies the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series with respect to such covenant or other provision, shall be deemed not to affect the rights under this Indenture of the Holders of Securities of any other series.

It shall not be necessary for any Act of Holders under this Section to approve the particular form of any proposed supplemental indenture, but it shall be sufficient if such Act shall approve the substance thereof. A consent to any indenture supplemental hereto by or on behalf of any Holder of Securities given in connection with a purchase of, or tender or exchange offer for, such Holder's Securities will not be rendered invalid by such purchase, tender or exchange.

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Section 9.03. *Execution of Supplemental Indentures*.

Section 9.04. *Effect of Supplemental Indentures*.

Upon the execution of any supplemental indenture under this Article, this Indenture shall be modified in accordance therewith, and such supplemental indenture shall form a part of this Indenture for all purposes; and every Holder of Securities theretofore or thereafter authenticated and delivered hereunder appertaining thereto shall be bound thereby.

Section 9.05. *Conformity With Trust Indenture Act*.

Every supplemental indenture executed pursuant to this Article shall conform to the requirements of the Trust Indenture Act as then in effect.

Section 9.06. *Reference in Securities to Supplemental Indentures*.

Securities of any series authenticated and delivered after the execution of any supplemental indenture pursuant to this Article may, and shall if required by the Trustee, bear a notation in form acceptable to the Trustee as to any matter provided for in such supplemental indenture. If the Company and the Guarantors shall so determine, new Securities of any series so modified as to conform, in the opinion of the Company and the Guarantors, to any such supplemental indenture may be prepared and executed by the Company and the Guarantors and authenticated and delivered by the Trustee in exchange for Outstanding Securities of such series.

ARTICLE 10

**COVENANTS** 

Section 10.01. *Payment of Principal, Premium and Interest*.

The Company covenants and agrees for the benefit of each series of Securities that it will duly and punctually pay or cause the Paying Agent to pay the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest, if any, on the Securities of that series in accordance with the terms of such series of Securities and this Indenture. The Company shall deposit an amount sufficient to pay the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest, if any, on the Securities of that series with the Paying Agent not later than 11:00 a.m., New York City time, on the applicable Interest Payment Date.

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Section 10.02. *Maintenance of Office or Agency*.

The Company will maintain in each Place of Payment for each series of Securities an office or agency where Securities of that series may be presented or surrendered for payment, where Securities of that series may be surrendered for registration of transfer or exchange and where notices and demands to or upon the Company with respect to the Securities of that series and this Indenture may be served, any one or more of which offices or agencies may be the same for one or more series of Securities.

The Company will give prompt written notice to the Trustee and prompt notice to the Holders of Securities of such series, as provided in Section 1.06, of the location, and of any change in the location, of any such office or agency. If at any time the Company shall fail to maintain any such required office or agency in respect of any series of Securities or shall fail to furnish the Trustee with the address thereof, or if so specified in the Securities, such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands may be made or served at the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee.

The Company may also from time to time designate one or more other offices or agencies (in or outside any Place of Payment) where the Securities of one or more series may be presented or surrendered for any or all such purposes and may from time to time rescind such designations; *provided*, *however*, that no such designation or rescission shall in any manner relieve the Company of its obligation to maintain an office or agency for Securities of any series for such purposes. The Company will give prompt written notice to the Trustee of any such designation or rescission and of any change in the location of any such other office or agency.

Section 10.03. *Money for Security Payments to Be Held in Trust*.

If the Company or any Guarantor shall at any time act as the Paying Agent with respect to any series of Securities, it will, on or before each due date of the principal of (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on any of the Securities of that series, segregate and hold in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto a sum sufficient to pay the principal (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, so becoming due until such sums shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein provided and will promptly notify the Trustee in writing of its action or failure so to act.

Whenever the Company shall have one or more Paying Agents for any series of Securities, it will, prior to each due date of the principal of (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on any Securities of that series, deposit with a Paying Agent a sum sufficient to pay the principal (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, so becoming due, such sum to be held in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled to such principal, premium or interest, and (unless such Paying Agent is the Trustee) the Company will promptly notify the Trustee of its action or failure so to act.

The Company will cause each Paying Agent of any series of Securities other than the Trustee to execute and deliver to the Trustee an instrument in which such Paying Agent shall agree with the Trustee, subject to the provisions of this Section, that such Paying Agent will:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) hold all sums held by it for the payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on the Securities of that series in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto until such sums shall be paid to such Persons otherwise disposed of as herein provided;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) give the Trustee written notice of any Default by the Company (or any other obligor upon the Securities of that series) in the making of any payment of principal (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on the Securities of that series; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) at any time during the continuance of any such Default, upon the written request of the Trustee, forthwith pay to the Trustee all sums so held in trust by such Paying Agent.

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The Company or any Guarantor may at any time, for the purpose of obtaining the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture or for any other purpose, pay, or by Company Order direct any Paying Agent to pay, to the Trustee all sums held in trust by the Company, such Guarantor or such Paying Agent, such sums to be held by the Trustee upon the same trusts as those upon which such sums were held by the Company, such Guarantor or such Paying Agent; and, upon such payment by any Paying Agent to the Trustee, such Paying Agent shall be released from all further liability with respect to such money.

Any money deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent, or then held by the Company or any Guarantor, in trust for the payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on any Security of any series and remaining unclaimed for two years after such principal (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, has become due and payable shall, unless otherwise required by mandatory provisions of applicable escheat, or abandoned or unclaimed property law, be paid to the Company or such Guarantor, as the case may be, on Company Request, or (if then held by the Company or such Guarantor) shall be discharged from such trust; and the Holder of such Security shall thereafter, as an unsecured general creditor, look only to the Company or such Guarantor for payment thereof, and all liability of the Trustee or such Paying Agent with respect to such trust money, and all liability of the Company or such Guarantor, as the case may be, as trustee thereof, shall thereupon cease.

Section 10.04. *Statement as to Compliance*.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The Company and the Guarantors will each deliver to the Trustee, within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the Company or the applicable Guarantor, as the case may be, ending after the date hereof, a written statement, which need not comply with Section 1.02 hereof, signed by the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer or the principal accounting officer, of the Company or the applicable Guarantor, as the case may be, stating whether or not, to the best knowledge of the signer thereof, the Company or the applicable Guarantor, as the case may be, is in Default in the performance and observance of any of the terms, provisions and conditions of this Indenture (without regard to any period of grace or requirement of notice provided hereunder) and, if the Company or the applicable Guarantor, as the case may be, shall be in Default, specifying all such Defaults and the nature and status thereof of which they may have knowledge.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The Company or any Guarantor shall each deliver to the Trustee, within 30 days after becoming aware of the occurrence of any Default or Event of Default an Officer's Certificate setting forth the details of such Default or Event of Default and the action which the Company or such Guarantor proposes to take with respect thereto.

Section 10.05. *Corporate Existence*.

Subject to Article 8, the Company and each Guarantor will do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve and keep in full force and effect its corporate existence.

Section 10.06. *Waiver of Certain Covenants*.

The Company may omit in any particular instance to comply with any term, provision or condition set forth in any covenant pursuant to 3.01(s), 9.01(b) or 9.01(g), if before the time for such compliance the Holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of each series shall, by Act of such Holders, either waive such compliance in such instance or generally waive compliance with such term, provision, covenant or condition, but no such waiver shall extend to or affect such term, provision, covenant or condition except to the extent so expressly waived, and, until such waiver shall become effective, the obligations of the Company and the duties of the Trustee with respect to any such term, provision, covenant or condition shall remain in full force and effect.

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Section 10.07. *Additional Amounts*.

If the Securities of a series provide for the payment of additional amounts, the Company will pay to the Holder of any Security of such series additional amounts as provided therein. Whenever in this Indenture there is mentioned, in any context, the payment of the principal of or any premium or interest on, or in respect of, any Security of any series or the net proceeds received on the sale or exchange of any Security of any series, such mention shall be deemed to include mention of the payment of additional amounts provided for in this Section to the extent that, in such context, additional amounts are, were or would be payable in respect thereof pursuant to the provisions of this Section and express mention of the payment of additional amounts (if applicable) in any provisions hereof shall not be construed as excluding additional amounts in those provisions hereof where such express mention is not made.

If the Securities of a series provide for the payment of additional amounts, at least 10 days prior to the first Interest Payment Date with respect to that series of Securities (or if the Securities of that series will not bear interest prior to Maturity, the first day on which a payment of principal and any premium is made), and at least 10 days prior to each date of payment of principal and any premium or interest if there has been any change with respect to the matters set forth in the below-mentioned Officer's Certificate, the Company will furnish the Trustee and the Company's principal Paying Agent or Paying Agents, if other than the Trustee, with an Officer's Certificate instructing the Trustee and such Paying Agent or Paying Agents whether such payment of principal of and any premium or interest on the Securities of that series shall be made to one or more Holders of Securities of that series without withholding for or on account of any tax, assessment or other governmental charge described in the Securities of that series. If any such withholding shall be required, then such Officer's Certificate shall specify by country the amount, if any, required to be withheld on such payments to such Holders of Securities and the Company will pay to the Trustee or such Paying Agent the additional amounts required by this Section. The Company covenants to indemnify the Trustee and any Paying Agent for, and to hold them harmless against, any loss, liability or expense reasonably incurred without negligence or willful misconduct on their part arising out of or in connection with actions taken or omitted by any of them in reliance on any Officer's Certificate furnished pursuant to this Section. The Trustee shall not at any time be under any duty or responsibility to any Holder to determine the additional amounts or with respect to the nature, extent, or calculation of the amount of additional amounts owed, or with respect to the method employed in such calculation of the additional amounts.

ARTICLE 11

**REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES** 

Section 11.01. *Applicability of This Article*.

Securities of any series which are redeemable before their Stated Maturity shall be redeemable in accordance with their terms and (except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 3.01 for Securities of any series) in accordance with this Article.

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Section 11.02. *Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee*.

The election of the Company to redeem any Securities shall be evidenced by a Board Resolution or an Officer's Certificate of an Authorized Officer authorized to make such election pursuant to a Board Resolution. In case of any redemption at the election of the Company of Securities of any series, the Company shall, subject to Section 11.04 at least 10 days prior to the Redemption Date fixed by the Company (unless a shorter notice shall be satisfactory to the Trustee), notify the Trustee in writing of such Redemption Date and of the principal amount of Securities of such series to be redeemed, such notice to be accompanied by a written statement signed by an Authorized Officer of the Company stating that no defaults in the payment of interest or Events of Default with respect to the Securities of that series have occurred (which have not been waived or cured). In the case of any redemption of Securities (a) prior to the expiration of any restriction on such redemption provided in the terms of such Securities or elsewhere in this Indenture, or (b) pursuant to an election of the Company which is subject to a condition, the Company shall furnish the Trustee with an Officer's Certificate evidencing compliance with such restriction or condition.

Section 11.03. *Selection by Trustee of Securities to Be Redeemed*.

If less than all the Securities of any series are to be redeemed, the particular Securities to be redeemed shall be selected not more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date by the Trustee, from the Outstanding Securities of such series not previously called for redemption by lot, pro rata or by such other method as the Trustee shall deem fair and appropriate and in the case of a Global Security, in accordance with the Depositary's applicable procedures, and which may provide for the selection for redemption of portions (equal to the minimum authorized denomination for Securities of that series or any integral multiple thereof) of the principal amount of Securities of such series of a denomination larger than the minimum authorized denomination for Securities of that series or of portions of the principal amount of global Securities of such series.

The Trustee shall promptly notify the Company in writing of the Securities selected for redemption and, in the case of any Securities selected for partial redemption, the principal amount thereof to be redeemed.

For all purposes of this Indenture, unless the context otherwise requires, all provisions relating to the redemption of Securities shall relate, in the case of any Securities redeemed or to be redeemed only in part, to the portion of the principal amount of such Securities which has been or is to be redeemed.

Section 11.04. *Notice of Redemption*.

Notice of redemption shall be given in the manner provided in Section 1.06 not more than 60 days nor less than 10 days prior to the Redemption Date, to the Holders of Securities to be redeemed. Notices of redemption may be conditioned upon the occurrence of one or more subsequent events specified in the notice.

All notices of redemption shall state:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the Redemption Date;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) the Redemption Price and any accrued interest;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) if less than all Outstanding Securities of any series are to be redeemed, the identification (and, in the case of partial redemption, the principal amounts) of the particular Securities to be redeemed;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) that on the Redemption Date the Redemption Price, and any accrued interest thereon, will become due and payable upon each such Security to be redeemed and that interest thereon shall cease to accrue from and after said date;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(v) the place or places where such Securities are maturing after the Redemption Date, to be surrendered for payment of the Redemption Price and any accrued interest thereon;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(vi) if such be the case, that the installment of interest on Securities whose Stated Maturity is the Redemption Date is payable to the Persons in whose names such Securities are registered at the close of business on the Regular Record Date immediately preceding the Redemption Date;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(vii) that the redemption is for a sinking fund, if such is the case;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(viii) any condition to such redemption; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ix) the CUSIP number of the Securities to be redeemed.

Notice of redemption of Securities to be redeemed shall be given by the Company or, at the Company's written request to the Trustee no less than five days (or such shorter period as agreed by the Trustee) prior to the date on which such redemption notice is to be sent to Holders of such series of Securities, by the Trustee in the name and at the expense of the Company.

Section 11.05. *Deposit of Redemption Price*.

Not later than 10:00 a.m., New York City time, on any Redemption Date, the Company or a Guarantor shall deposit with the Trustee or with a Paying Agent (or, if the Company or a Guarantor is acting as the Paying Agent, segregate and hold in trust as provided in Section 10.03) an amount of money sufficient to pay the Redemption Price of, and (except if the Redemption Date shall be an Interest Payment Date) any accrued interest on, all the Securities which are to be redeemed on that date.

Section 11.06. *Securities Payable on Redemption Date*.

Notice of redemption having been given as aforesaid, the Securities so to be redeemed shall (provided any conditions specified in such notice of redemption shall have been satisfied or waived), on the Redemption Date, become due and payable at the Redemption Price therein specified together with any accrued interest thereon and from and after such date (unless the Company shall default in the payment of the Redemption Price and accrued interest), such Securities shall cease to bear interest. Upon surrender of any such Securities for redemption in accordance with said notice, such Securities shall be paid by the Company or a Guarantor at the Redemption Price, together with any accrued interest to the Redemption Date (provided any conditions specified in such notice of redemption shall have been satisfied or waived).

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If the Company shall default in the payment of the Redemption Price and accrued interest on any Security called for redemption, the principal (and premium, if any) of such Security shall, until paid or until payment is provided for in accordance herewith, bear interest for the Redemption Date at the rate, if any, prescribed therefor in the Security.

So long as it is actually known to a Responsible Officer of the Trustee that an Event of Default is continuing hereunder, the Trustee shall not redeem any Securities of any series pursuant to this Article (unless all Outstanding Securities of such series are to be redeemed) or give any notice of redemption of Securities except that, where the giving of notice of redemption of any Securities shall theretofore have been made, the Trustee shall redeem or cause to be redeemed such Securities, *provided* that it shall have received from the Company a sum sufficient for such redemption. Except as aforesaid, any monies theretofore or thereafter received by the Trustee shall, during the continuance of such Event of Default, be deemed to have been collected under Article 5 and held for the payment of all such Securities. In case such Event of Default shall have been waived as provided in Section 5.13 or the Default cured on or before the sixtieth day preceding the Redemption Date, such monies shall thereafter be applied in accordance with the provisions of this Article.

Section 11.07. *Securities Redeemed in Part*.

Any Security which is to be redeemed only in part shall be surrendered at any Place of Payment therefor (with, if the Company, any Guarantor or the Trustee so requires, due endorsement by, or a written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Company, the Guarantors and the Trustee duly executed by, the Holder thereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing) and the Company and the Guarantors shall execute and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver to the Holder of such Security without service charge, a new Security or Securities of the same series and of like tenor, of any authorized denomination as requested by the Holder, in an aggregate principal amount equal to and in exchange for the unredeemed portion of the principal of the Security so surrendered.

ARTICLE 12

**SINKING FUNDS** 

Section 12.01. *Applicability of Article*.

The provisions of this Article shall be applicable to any sinking fund for the retirement of Securities of a series except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 3.01 for the Securities of such series.

The minimum amount of any sinking fund payment provided for by the terms of Securities of any series is herein referred to as a "**mandatory sinking fund payment**", and any payment in excess of such minimum amount provided for by the terms of the Securities of any series is herein referred to as an "**optional sinking fund payment.**" If provided for by the terms of the Securities of any series, the cash amount of any sinking fund payment may be subject to reduction as provided in Section 12.02. Each sinking fund payment made on the Securities of a series shall be applied to the redemption of the Securities of such series as provided for by the terms of the Securities of such series.

Section 12.02. *Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments With Securities*.

The Company (a) may deliver Outstanding Securities of a series (other than any previously called for redemption) and (b) may apply as a credit the Securities of a series which have been redeemed either at the election of the Company pursuant to the terms of such Securities or through

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the application of permitted optional sinking fund payments pursuant to the terms of such Securities, in each case in satisfaction of all or any part of any sinking fund payment as specified in the Officer's Certificate delivered pursuant to Section 12.03 with respect to the Securities of such series required to be made pursuant to the terms of such Securities as provided for by the terms of such series; *provided* that such Securities have not been previously so credited. Such Securities shall be received and credited for such purpose by the Trustee at the Redemption Price specified in such Securities for redemption through operation of the sinking fund and the amount of such sinking fund payment shall be reduced accordingly.

Section 12.03. *Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund*.

Not less than 60 days or such other shorter period as may be acceptable to the Trustee prior to each sinking fund payment date for any series of Securities, the Company will deliver to the Trustee an Officer's Certificate specifying the amount of the next ensuing sinking fund payment for that series pursuant to the terms of that series, the portion thereof, if any, which is to be satisfied by payment of cash and the portion thereof, if any, which is to be satisfied by delivering and crediting Securities of that series pursuant to Section 12.02 and will also deliver to the Trustee any Securities to be so delivered. Not less than 30 days before each such sinking fund payment date the Trustee shall select the Securities to be redeemed upon such sinking fund payment date in the manner specified in Section 11.03 and cause notice of the redemption thereof to be given in the name of and at the expense of the Company in the manner provided in Section 11.04. Such notice having been duly given, the redemption of such Securities shall be made upon the terms and in the manner stated in Sections 11.06 and 11.07.

ARTICLE 13

**MEETINGS OF THE HOLDERS OF SECURITIES** 

Section 13.01. *Purposes for Which Meetings May Be Called*.

A meeting of Holders of Securities of any series may be called at any time and from time to time pursuant to this Article to make, give or take any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action provided by this Indenture to be made, given or taken by Holders of Securities of such series.

Section 13.02. *Call, Notice and Place of Meetings*.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The Trustee may at any time call a meeting of Holders of Securities of any series issuable as Securities for any purpose specified in Section 13.01, to be held at such time and at such place in the Borough of Manhattan, The City of New York, or as the Trustee shall determine. Notice of every meeting of Holders of Securities of any series, setting forth the time and the place of such meeting and in general terms the action proposed to be taken at such meeting, shall be given, in the manner provided in Section 1.06, not less than 21 nor more than 180 days prior to the date fixed for the meeting.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) In case at any time the Company or any Guarantor shall have requested the Trustee to call a meeting of the Holders of Securities of such series for any purpose specified in Section 13.01, by written request setting forth in reasonable detail the action proposed to be taken at the meeting, and the Trustee shall not have sent the notice of such meeting within 21 days after receipt of such request or shall not thereafter proceed to cause the meeting to be held as provided herein, then the Company or such Guarantor may determine the time and the place in the Borough of Manhattan, The City of New York, for such meeting and may call such meeting for such purposes by giving notice thereof as provided in subsection (a) of this Section.

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Section 13.03. *Persons Entitled to Vote at Meetings*.

To be entitled to vote at any meeting of Holders of Securities of any series, a Person shall be (a) a Holder of one or more Outstanding Securities of such series, or (b) a Person appointed by an instrument in writing as proxy for a Holder or Holders of one or more Outstanding Securities of which series by such Holder or Holders. The only Persons who shall be entitled to be present or to speak at any meeting of Holders of Securities of any series shall be the Persons entitled to vote at such meeting and their counsel, any representatives of the Trustee and its counsel, any representatives of the Company and its counsel and any representatives of any Guarantor and its counsel. The Company may set a record date for purposes of determining the identity of Holders entitled to vote at any meeting of Holders of Securities.

Section 13.04. *Quorum; Action*.

The Persons entitled to vote a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of a series shall constitute a quorum for a meeting of Holders of Securities of such series; *provided*, *however*, that if any action is to be taken at such meeting with respect to a consent or waiver which this Indenture or the terms of such series expressly provides may be given by the Holders of not less than a specified percentage of the principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of a series, the Persons entitled to vote such specified percentage in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series shall constitute a quorum. In the absence of a quorum within 30 minutes of the time appointed for any such meeting, the meeting shall, if convened at the request of Holders of Securities of such series be dissolved. In any other case the meeting may be adjourned for a period of not less than 10 days as determined by the chairman of the meeting prior to the adjournment of such meeting. In the absence of a quorum at any such adjourned meeting, such adjourned meeting may be further adjourned for a period of not less than 10 days as determined by the chairman of the meeting prior to the adjournment of such adjourned meeting. Notice of the reconvening of any adjourned meeting shall be given as provided in Section 13.02(a), except that such notice need be given only once not less than five days prior to the date on which the meeting is scheduled to be reconvened. Notice of the reconvening of an adjourned meeting shall state expressly the percentage, as provided above, of the principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series which shall constitute a quorum.

Except as limited by the proviso to Section 9.02, any resolution presented to a meeting or adjourned meeting duly reconvened at which a quorum is present as aforesaid may be adopted by the affirmative vote of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of that series; *provided, however,* that, except as limited by the proviso to Section 9.02, any resolution with respect to any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action which this Indenture or the terms of such series expressly provides may be made, given or taken by the Holders of a specified percentage in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of a series may be adopted at a meeting or an adjourned meeting duly reconvened and at which a quorum is present as aforesaid by the affirmative vote of the Holders of such specified percentage in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of that series.

Any resolution passed or decision taken at any meeting of Holders of Securities of any series duly held in accordance with this Section shall be binding on all the Holders of Securities of such series, whether or not present or represented at the meeting.

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Section 13.05. *Determination of Voting Rights; Conduct and Adjournment of Meeting*.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Indenture, the Trustee, or the Company or any Guarantor, if the meeting shall have been called by the Company, such Guarantor or by Holders of Securities as provided in Section 13.02(b), may make such reasonable regulations as it may deem advisable for any meeting of Holders of Securities of a series in regard to proof of the holding of Securities of such series and of the appointment of proxies and in regard to the appointment and duties of inspectors of votes, the submission and examination of proxies, certificates and other evidence of the right to vote, and such other matters concerning the conduct of the meeting as it shall deem appropriate. Except as otherwise permitted or required by any such regulations, the holding of Securities shall be proved in the manner specified in Section 1.04 and the appointment of any proxy shall be proved in the manner specified in Section 1.04 or by having the signature of the person executing the proxy witnessed or guaranteed by any trust company, bank or banker authorized by Section 1.04 to certify to the holding of Securities. Such regulations may provide that written instruments appointing proxies, regular on their face, may be presumed valid and genuine without the proof specified in Section 1.04 or other proof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The Trustee shall, by an instrument in writing, appoint a temporary chairman of the meeting, unless the meeting shall have been called by the Company, any Guarantor or by Holders of Securities as provided in Section 13.02(b), in which case the Company, such Guarantor or the Holders of Securities of the series calling the meeting, as the case may be, shall in like manner appoint a temporary chairman. A permanent chairman and a permanent secretary of the meeting shall be elected by vote of the Persons entitled to vote a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series represented at the meeting.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) At any meeting each Holder of a Security of such series or proxy shall be entitled to one vote for each $1,000 principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series held or represented by him; provided, however, that no vote shall be cast or counted at any meeting in respect of any Security challenged as not Outstanding and ruled by the chairman of the meeting to be not Outstanding. The chairman of the meeting shall have no right to vote, except as a Holder of a Security of such series or proxy.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) Any meeting of Holders of Securities of any series duly called pursuant to Section 13.02 at which a quorum is present may be adjourned from time to time by Persons entitled to vote a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series represented at the meeting; and the meeting may be held as so adjourned without further notice.

Section 13.06. *Counting Votes and Recording Action of Meetings*.

The vote upon any resolution submitted to any meeting of Holders of Securities of any series shall be by written ballots on which shall be subscribed the signatures of the Holders of Securities of such series or of their representatives by proxy and the principal amounts and serial numbers of the Outstanding Securities of such series held or represented by them. The permanent chairman of the meeting shall appoint two inspectors of votes who shall count all votes cast at the meeting for or against any resolution and who shall make and file with the secretary of the meeting their verified written reports in duplicate of all votes cast at the meeting. A record, at least in duplicate, of the proceedings of each meeting of Holders of Securities of any series shall be prepared by the secretary of the meeting and there shall be attached to said record the original reports of the inspectors of votes on any vote by ballot taken thereat and affidavits by one or more persons having knowledge of the facts setting forth a copy of the notice of the meeting and showing that said notice was given as provided in Section 13.02 and, if applicable, Section 13.04. Each copy shall be signed and verified by the affidavits of the permanent chairman and secretary of the meeting and one such copy shall be delivered to the Company, another to each Guarantor, and another to the Trustee to be preserved by the Trustee, the latter to have attached thereto the ballots voted at the meeting. Any record so signed and verified shall be conclusive evidence of the matters therein stated.

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Section 13.07. *Force Majeure*.

The Trustee shall not incur any liability for not performing any act or fulfilling any duty, obligation or responsibility hereunder by reason of any occurrence beyond the control of the Trustee (including but not limited to any act or provision of any present or future law or regulation or governmental authority, any act of God or war, civil unrest, local or national disturbance or disaster, pandemic, any act of terrorism, or the unavailability of the Federal Reserve Bank wire or facsimile or other wire or communication facility).

Section 13.08. *U.S.A. Patriot Act*.

The parties hereto acknowledge that in order to help the United States government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, pursuant to federal regulations that became effective on October 1, 2003 (Section 326 of the USA PATRIOT Act) all financial institutions are required to obtain, verify, record and update information that identifies each person establishing a relationship or opening an account. The parties to this Indenture agree that it will provide to the Trustee such information as they may request, from time to time, in order for the Trustee to satisfy the requirements of the USA PATRIOT Act, including but not limited to the name, address, tax identification number and other information that will allow it to identify the individual or entity who is establishing the relationship or opening the account and may also ask for formation documents such as articles of incorporation or other identifying documents to be provided.

Section 13.09. *Signatures*.

The exchange of copies of this Indenture and of signature pages by facsimile or PDF transmission shall constitute effective execution and delivery of this Indenture as to the parties hereto and may be used in lieu of the original Indenture for all purposes. Signatures of the parties hereto transmitted by facsimile or PDF shall be deemed to be their original signatures for all purposes.

ARTICLE 14

**GUARANTEES** 

Section 14.01. *Guarantees*.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) With respect to the Securities that are Guaranteed by a Guarantor hereunder, such Guarantor hereby fully, unconditionally and irrevocably guarantees to each Holder of the Securities and to the Trustee the full and punctual payment when due, whether at maturity, by acceleration, by redemption or otherwise, of the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on the Securities and all other obligations of the Company under this Indenture (all the foregoing being hereinafter collectively called the "**Obligations**"). Each of the Guarantors further agrees (to the extent permitted by law) that the Obligations guaranteed by such Guarantor may be extended or renewed, in whole or in part, without notice or further assent from it under the terms of this Indenture, and that it shall remain bound under this Indenture notwithstanding any such extension or renewal of any Obligation.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Each of the Guarantors waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, presentation to, demand of payment from and protest to the Company of any of the Obligations and also waives notice of protest for nonpayment. Each of the Guarantors waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, notice of any default under the Securities or the Obligations. The obligations of each of the Guarantors hereunder shall not be affected by: (a) the failure of any Holder to assert any claim or demand or to enforce any right or remedy against the Company or any other person under this Indenture, the Securities or any other agreement or otherwise; (b) any extension or renewal of any thereof; (c) any rescission, waiver, amendment or modification of any of the terms or provisions of this Indenture, the Securities or any other agreement; (d) the release of any security held by any Holder or the Trustee for the Obligations or any of them; or (e) any change in the ownership of the Company.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Each of the Guarantors further agrees that the Guarantees herein constitute guarantees of payment when due (and not a guarantee of collection) and waives any right to require that any resort be had by any Holder to any security held for payment of the Obligations.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) The obligations of each of the Guarantors hereunder shall not be subject to any reduction, limitation, impairment or termination for any reason (other than payment of the Obligations in full), including any claim of waiver, release, surrender, alteration or compromise, and shall not be subject to any defense of setoff, counterclaim, recoupment or termination whatsoever or by reason of the invalidity, illegality or unenforceability of the Obligations or otherwise. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the obligations of each of the Guarantors herein shall not be discharged or impaired or otherwise affected by the failure of any Holder to assert any claim or demand or to enforce any remedy under this Indenture, the Securities or any other agreement, by any waiver or modification of any thereof, by any default, failure or delay, willful or otherwise, in the performance of the Obligations, or by any other act or thing or omission or delay to do any other act or thing which may or might in any manner or to any extent vary the risk of each of the Guarantors or would otherwise operate as a discharge of the Guarantors as a matter of law or equity.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) Each of the Guarantors further agrees that the Guarantees herein shall continue to be effective or be reinstated, as the case may be, if at any time payment, or any part thereof, of principal of (and premium, if any) or interest on any of the Obligations is rescinded or must otherwise be restored by any Holder upon the bankruptcy or reorganization of the Company or otherwise.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) In furtherance of the foregoing and not in limitation of any other right which any Holder has at law or in equity against any of the Guarantors by virtue hereof, upon the failure of the Company to pay any of the Obligations guaranteed by a Guarantor when and as the same shall become due, whether at maturity, by acceleration, by redemption or otherwise, such Guarantor hereby promises to and shall, upon receipt of written demand by the Trustee, forthwith pay, or cause to be paid, in cash, to the Holders an amount equal to the sum of (i) the unpaid amount of such Obligations then due and owing and (ii) accrued and unpaid interest on such Obligations then due and owing (but only to the extent not prohibited by law).

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) Each of the Guarantors further agrees that, as between itself, on the one hand, and the Holders, on the other hand, (i) the maturity of the Obligations guaranteed hereby may be accelerated as provided in this Indenture for the purposes of the Guarantees herein, notwithstanding any stay, injunction or other prohibition preventing such acceleration in respect of the Obligations guaranteed hereby and (ii) in the event of any such declaration of acceleration of such Obligations guaranteed by a Guarantor, such Obligations (whether or not due and payable) shall forthwith become due and payable by such Guarantor for the purposes of these Guarantees.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) Each of the Guarantors also agrees to pay any and all reasonable costs and expenses (including reasonable and out-of-pocket attorneys' fees) incurred by the Trustee or the Holders in enforcing any rights relating to the Securities guaranteed by such Guarantor under this Indenture.

Section 14.02. *Release of Guarantors*.

A Guarantor shall be released:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) in connection with any sale, assignment, exchange, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of all or substantially all of the properties or assets of such Guarantor (including by way of merger, consolidation, amalgamation or otherwise) to a Person that is not (either before or after giving effect to such transaction) a Subsidiary of the Company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) in connection with any sale, assignment, exchange, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of Capital Stock of the Company by way of merger, consolidation, amalgamation or otherwise after which such Guarantor is no longer a Subsidiary of the Company; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) upon defeasance or satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture as provided under Article 4.

In the event of a release in accordance with the foregoing paragraphs, the Company shall promptly thereafter deliver written notice of such release to the Trustee.

Section 14.03. *No Subrogation*.

Notwithstanding any payment or payments made by the Guarantors hereunder, none of the Guarantors shall be entitled to be subrogated to any of the rights of the Trustee or any Holder against the Company or any collateral security or guarantee or right of offset held by the Trustee or any Holder for the payment of the Obligations, nor shall any of the Guarantors seek or be entitled to seek any contribution or reimbursement from the Company or any other Guarantor in respect of payments made by such Guarantor hereunder, until all amounts owing to the Trustee and the Holders by the Company on account of the Obligations are paid in full. If any amount shall be paid to any of the Guarantors on account of such subrogation rights at any time when all of the Obligations shall not have been paid in full, such amount shall be held by such Guarantor in trust for the Trustee and the Holders, segregated from other funds of such Guarantor, and shall, forthwith upon receipt by such Guarantor, be turned over to the Trustee in the exact form received by such Guarantor (duly indorsed by such Guarantor to the Trustee, if required), to be applied against the Obligations.

Section 14.04. *Additional Guarantors*.

Any Subsidiary may be added as a Guarantor by executing a supplemental indenture in accordance with Section 9.01 pursuant to which such Subsidiary agrees to be bound by the terms and provisions of this Indenture as a Guarantor.

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Indenture to be duly executed as of the day and year first above written.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| ACUITY INC. | ACUITY INC. |
| By: | /s/ Neil M. Ashe |
|  | Name: Neil M. Ashe |
|  | Title: President and Chief Executive Officer |
| ACUITY BRANDS LIGHTING, INC. | ACUITY BRANDS LIGHTING, INC. |
| By: | /s/ Karen J. Holcom |
|  | Name: Karen J. Holcom |
|  | Title: Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
| ACUITY INTELLIGENT SPACES INC. | ACUITY INTELLIGENT SPACES INC. |
| By: | /s/ Muhammed Lasege |
|  | Name: Muhammed Lasege |
|  | Title: Vice President, Treasurer |
| QSC, LLC | QSC, LLC |
| By: | /s/ Karen J. Holcom |
|  | Name: Karen J. Holcom |
|  | Title: Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
| ABL IP HOLDING LLC | ABL IP HOLDING LLC |
| By: | /s/ Muhammed Lasege |
|  | Name: Muhammed Lasege |
|  | Title: Vice President, Treasurer |
| U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as Trustee | U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as Trustee |
| By: | /s/ Chelsey Jordan |
|  | Name: Chelsey Jordan |
|  | Title: Assistant Vice President |

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**EXHIBIT A** 

[FORM OF SECURITY]<sup>1</sup>

[Form of Face]

[If an Original Issue Discount Security, insert any legend required by the Internal Revenue Code and the regulations thereunder.]

ACUITY INC.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| No. [•] | [U.S. $] [•] |

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ACUITY INC., a corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the State of Delaware (herein called the "**Company**", which term includes any successor Person under the Indenture referred to on the reverse hereof), for value received, hereby promises to pay to [ ], or registered assigns, the principal sum of [United States] Dollars on [If the Security is interest bearing, insert, and to pay interest thereon from or from the most recent Interest Payment Date to which interest has been paid or duly provided for, [semi-annually in arrears on and in each year] [annually in arrears on in each year], commencing at the rate of [ ]% per annum, until the principal hereof is paid or made available for payment [If applicable, insert, and (to the extent that the payment of such interest shall be legally enforceable) at the rate of [ ]% per annum on any overdue principal [and premium, if any,] and on any overdue installment of interest]. The interest so payable, and timely paid or duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date will, as provided in such Indenture, be paid to the Person in whose name the Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the Regular Record Date for such interest, which shall be the [ ] or [ ] (whether or not a Business Day), as the case may be, next preceding such Interest Payment Date. Except as otherwise provided in the Indenture, any such interest not so timely paid or duly provided for will forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on such Regular Record Date and may either be paid to the Person in whose name the Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest to be fixed by the Company, notice whereof shall be given to Holders of Securities of this series not less than 10 days prior to such Special Record Date, or be paid at any time in any other lawful manner not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange on which the Securities of this series may be listed, and upon such notice as may be required by such exchange, all as more fully provided in said Indenture.]

[If the Security is not to bear interest prior to Maturity, insert- The principal of this Security shall not bear interest except in the case of a default in payment of principal upon acceleration, upon redemption or at Stated Maturity, and in such case the overdue principal of this Security shall bear interest at the rate of [ ]% per annum (to the extent that the payment of such interest shall be legally enforceable), which shall accrue from the date of such default in payment to the date payment of such principal has been made or duly provided for. Interest on any overdue principal shall be payable on demand. Any such interest on any overdue principal that is not so paid on demand shall bear interest at the rate of [ ]% per annum (to the extent that the payment of such interest shall be legally enforceable), which shall accrue from the date of such demand for payment to the date payment of such interest has been made or duly provided for, and such interest shall also be payable on demand.]

<sup>1</sup> To be completed and supplemented to reflect the terms of any series of Securities.

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[Payment of the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and [If applicable, insert- any such] interest on this Security will be made at [the offices or agencies of the Company maintained for that purpose in [ ], ] [the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee] in such coin or currency [of the United States of America] as at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debt; *provided*, *however*, [If applicable, insert- (a) in the case of Securities in global form registered in the name of or held by DTC or its nominee, payment of the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and [If applicable, insert- any such] interest] will be made in immediately available funds to DTC or its nominee, as the case may be, as the registered holder of such Global Security, and (b) in the case of other Securities,] at the option of the Company payment of the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and [If applicable, insert- any such] interest may be made by [United States dollar] check delivered to the address of the Person entitled thereto as such address shall appear in the Security Register.

Reference is hereby made to the further provisions of this Security set forth on the reverse side hereof, which further provisions shall for all purposes have the same effect as if set forth at this place.

Unless the certificate of authentication hereon has been executed by the Trustee referred to on the reverse hereof, directly or through an Authenticating Agent, by manual signature of an authorized signatory, this Security shall not be entitled to any benefit under the Indenture or be valid or obligatory for any purpose.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this instrument to be duly executed.

Dated:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| ACUITY INC. | ACUITY INC. |
| By: |  |
|  | Name: |
|  | Title: |

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[Form of Reverse]

This Security is one of a duly authorized issue of securities of the Company (herein called the "**Securities**"), issued and to be issued in one or more series under an Indenture, dated as of [ ] (herein called the "**Indenture**"), among the Company, Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc., QSC, LLC, ABL IP Holding LLC and [ ], as Trustee (herein called the "**Trustee**", which term includes any successor trustee under the Indenture), to which Indenture and all indentures supplemental thereto reference is hereby made for a statement of the respective rights, limitations of rights, duties and immunities thereunder of the Company, the Trustee and the Holders of the Securities and of the terms upon which the Securities are, and are to be, authenticated and delivered. This Security is one of the series designated on the face hereof[, limited in aggregate principal amount to [U.S.] [$][ ]], subject to the Company's right from time to time, without giving notice to or seeking the consent of the holders of the Securities, to issue an unlimited amount of additional securities in one or more series having the same ranking and the same interest rate, maturity and other terms as the Securities other than issue date, issue price and the payment of

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interest accruing prior to the issue date of the additional securities (such additional securities having such similar terms, together with the Securities of this series, constituting a single issue of Securities under the Indenture), *provided* that if such additional securities are not fungible with the then-outstanding Securities of this series for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the additional securities shall have a separate CUSIP number. The Securities of this series are issuable as Securities only in registered form, without coupons in denominations of [U.S.] [$][ ] , and any integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof. As provided in the Indenture and subject to certain limitations therein set forth, Securities of this Series are exchangeable for a like aggregate principal amount of Securities of this Series and of like tenor of any authorized denominations, as requested by the Holder surrendering the same, upon surrender of the Security or Securities to be exchanged at any office or agency described below where Securities of this series may be presented for registration of transfer.

[If applicable, insert- The Securities of this series are subject to redemption [(1)] [If applicable, insert- on in any year commencing with the year and ending with the year through operation of the sinking fund for this series at a Redemption Price equal to [100% of the principal amount] [or insert formula for determining the amount]], [and (2)] [If applicable, insert- at any time [on or after, 20 ], as a whole or in part, at the election of the Company, at the following Redemption Prices (expressed as percentages of the principal amount): If redeemed [or before [ ], [ ]% and if redeemed] during the 12-month period beginning of the years indicated,

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Year** | **Redemption**<br>**Price** | **Year** | **Redemption**<br>**Price** |

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and thereafter at a Redemption Price equal to [ ]% of the principal amount,] [If applicable, insert- [and ()] under the circumstances described in the next [two] succeeding paragraph[s] at a Redemption Price equal to [100% of the principal amount,] [or insert formula for determining the amount]] [If the Security is interest-bearing, insert-, together in the case of any such redemption [If applicable, insert- (whether through operation of the sinking fund or otherwise)] with accrued interest to the Redemption Date; *provided, however,* that installments of interest on this Security whose Stated Maturity is on or prior to such Redemption Date will be payable to the Holder of this Security, or one or more Predecessor Securities, of record at the close of business on the relevant record dates referred to on the face hereof, all as provided in the Indenture].]

[If applicable, insert- The Securities of this series are subject to redemption [(1)] on in any year commencing with the year and ending with the year through operation of the sinking fund for this series at the Redemption Prices for redemption through operation of the sinking fund (expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth in the table below, and (2) at any time [on or after [ ], ], as a whole or in part, at the election of the Company, at the Redemption Prices for redemption otherwise than through operation of the sinking fund (expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth in the table below. If redeemed during the 12-month period beginning of the years indicated,

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Year** | **Redemption Price for<br>Redemption -**<br>**Through Operation of the<br>Sinking Fund** | **Redemption Price for<br>Redemption-**<br>**Otherwise Than Through<br>Operation of**<br>**the Sinking Fund** |

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and thereafter at a Redemption Price equal to [ ]% of the principal amount, [If applicable, insert-and (3) under the circumstances described in the next [two] succeeding paragraph[s] at a Redemption Price equal to [100% of the principal amount,] [or insert formula for determining the amount]] [If the Security is interest-bearing, insert-, together in the case of any such redemption (whether through operation of the sinking fund or otherwise) with accrued interest to the Redemption Date; *provided*, *however*, that installments of interest on this Security whose Stated Maturity is on or prior to such Redemption Date will be payable to the Holder of this Security, or one or more Predecessor Securities, of record at the close of business on the relevant record dates referred to on the face hereof, all as provided in the Indenture].]

Partial redemption must be made in an amount not less than [U.S. $2,000 or in integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof].

[Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company may not, prior to [ ], redeem any Securities of this series as contemplated by Clause [(2)] above as a part of, or in anticipation of, any refunding operation by the application, directly or indirectly, of moneys borrowed having an interest cost to the Company (calculated in accordance with generally accepted financial practice) of less than % per annum.]

[The sinking fund for this series provides for the redemption on in each year, beginning with the year and ending with the year of [not less than] [U.S.] [$][ ] [("**mandatory sinking fund**") and not more than [U.S.] [$][ ]] aggregate principal amount of Securities of this series. [Securities of this series acquired or redeemed by the Company otherwise than through [mandatory] sinking fund payments may be credited against subsequent [mandatory] sinking fund payments otherwise required to be made in the inverse order in which they become due.]]

[Notice of redemption will be given by mail or delivered to Holders of Securities, not more than 60 days nor less than 10 days prior to the date fixed for redemption, all as provided in the Indenture.]

In the event of redemption of this Security in part only, a new Security or Securities of this series and of like tenor for the unredeemed portion hereof will be issued in the name of the Holder hereof upon the cancellation hereof.

Subject to certain conditions set forth in the Indenture, the Company at any time may discharge or defease some of or all its obligations under this Security and the Indenture in accordance with Section 4.01 of the Indenture.

If an Event of Default with respect to Securities of this series shall occur and be continuing, [the] [If an Original Issue Discount Security, insert- an amount of] principal of the Securities of this series may be declared due and payable in the manner and with the effect provided in the Indenture. [If an Original Issue Discount Security, insert- Such amount shall be equal to -insert formula for determining the amount. Upon payment (i) of the amount of principal so declared due and payable and (ii) of interest on any overdue principal and overdue interest (in each case to the extent that the payment of such interest shall be legally enforceable), all of the Company's obligations in respect of the payment of the principal of and interest, if any, on the Securities of this series shall terminate.]

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The Indenture permits, with certain exceptions as therein provided, the amendment thereof and the modification of the rights and obligations of the Company and the Guarantors and the rights of the Holders of the Securities of each series to be affected under the Indenture at any time by the Company, the Guarantors and the Trustee with the consent of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities at the time Outstanding of each series to be affected. The Indenture also contains provisions permitting the Holders of specified percentages in principal amount of the Securities of each series at the time Outstanding (with each series voting as a separate class in certain cases specified in the Indenture, or with all series voting as one class, in certain other cases specified in the Indenture), on behalf of the Holders of all Securities of such series, to waive compliance by the Company and/or the Guarantor with certain provisions of the Indenture and certain past defaults under the Indenture and their consequences. Any such consent or waiver by the Holder of this Security shall be conclusive and binding upon such Holder and upon all future Holders of this Security and of any Security issued upon the registration of transfer hereof or in exchange herefor or in lieu hereof, whether or not notification of such consent or waiver is made upon this Security.

As set forth in, and subject to, the provisions of the Indenture, no Holder of any Security of this series will have any right to institute any proceeding with respect to the Indenture or for any remedy thereunder, unless such Holder shall have previously given to the Trustee written notice at the Corporate Trust Office of a continuing Event of Default with respect to this series, the Holders of not less than 33% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of this series and all other affected series shall have made written request to the Trustee to institute such proceeding as trustee (and offered security or indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee), and the Trustee shall not have received from the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all affected series a direction inconsistent with such request and shall have failed to institute such proceedings within 60 days; *provided, however,* that such limitations do not apply to a suit instituted by the Holder hereof for the enforcement of payment of the principal of [(and premium, if any)] or [any] interest on this Security on or after the respective due dates expressed herein.

No reference herein to the Indenture and no provision of this Security or of the Indenture shall alter or impair the obligation of the Company, which is absolute and unconditional, to pay the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and [any] interest [(including additional amounts, as described on the face hereof)] on this Security at the times, place[s] and rate, and in the coin or currency, herein prescribed.

As provided in the Indenture and subject to certain limitations therein set forth, the transfer of this Security is registrable in the Security Register, upon surrender of this Security for registration of transfer at the office or agency of the Company in any place where the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and any interest on such Security are payable, duly endorsed by, or accompanied by a written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Company and the Security Registrar duly executed by, the Holder hereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing, and thereupon one or more new Securities of this series and of like tenor, of authorized denominations and for the same aggregate principal amount, will be issued to the designated transferee or transferees. The Company and the Trustee shall be entitled to request an opinion of counsel providing that the transfer complies with applicable securities laws.

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No service charge shall be made for any such registration of transfer or exchange, but the Company may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge payable in connection therewith.

Prior to due presentment of this Security for registration of transfer, the Company, the Guarantors, the Trustee and any agent of the Company or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name this Security is registered as the owner hereof for all purposes, whether or not this Security is overdue, and none of the Company, the Guarantors, the Trustee nor any such agent shall be affected by notice to the contrary.

Notwithstanding anything in the Indenture or in the terms of this Security to the contrary, the exchange of this Security for a Security will be subject to satisfaction of the provisions of the United States tax laws in effect at the time of the exchange. Neither the Company nor the Trustee nor any agent of the Company or the Trustee shall be required to exchange this Security for a Security if (i) as a result thereof and in the Company's judgment, the Company would incur adverse consequences under then applicable United States Federal income tax laws and (ii) in the case of the Trustee or any agent of the Company or the Trustee, the Company shall have delivered to such Person an Officer's Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel as to the matters set forth in clause (i) above.

The Indenture and the Securities shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.

All terms used in this Security which are defined in the Indenture shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Indenture.

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GUARANTEE

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, each of [ ], [ ], and [ ] (collectively the "**Guarantors**" and each, individually, a "**Guarantor**"), hereby fully, unconditionally and irrevocably guarantees to the Holder of the security upon which this Guarantee is endorsed (the "**Security**") and to [ ], as trustee (the "**Trustee**"), the full and punctual payment when due, whether at maturity, by acceleration, by redemption or otherwise, of the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on the Security and all other obligations of the Company under the Indenture, dated as of [ ] (the "**Indenture**"), among Acuity Inc. (the "**Company**"), [Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc., QSC, LLC, ABL IP Holding LLC] and the Trustee (all the foregoing being hereinafter collectively called the "**Obligations**"). Each of the Guarantors further agrees (to the extent permitted by law) that the Obligations may be extended or renewed, in whole or in part, without notice or further assent from it under the terms of the Indenture, and that it shall remain bound under the Indenture notwithstanding any such extension or renewal of any Obligation.

Each of the Guarantors waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, presentation to, demand of payment from and protest to the Company of any of the Obligations and also waives notice of protest for nonpayment. Each of the Guarantors waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, notice of any default under the Security or the Obligations. The obligations of each of the Guarantors hereunder shall not be affected by: (a) the failure of the Holder to assert any claim or demand or to enforce any right or remedy against the Company or any other person under the Indenture, the Security or any other agreement or otherwise; (b) any extension or renewal of any thereof; (c) any rescission, waiver, amendment or modification of any of the terms or provisions of the Indenture, the Security or any other agreement; (d) the release of any security held by the Holder or the Trustee for the Obligations or any of them; or (e) any change in the ownership of the Company.

Each of the Guarantors further agrees that this Guarantee constitutes a guarantee of payment when due (and not a guarantee of collection) and waives any right to require that any resort be had by the Holder to any security held for payment of the Obligations.

The obligations of each of the Guarantors hereunder shall not be subject to any reduction, limitation, impairment or termination for any reason (other than payment of the Obligations in full), including any claim of waiver, release, surrender, alteration or compromise, and shall not be subject to any defense of setoff, counterclaim, recoupment or termination whatsoever or by reason of the invalidity, illegality or unenforceability of the Obligations or otherwise. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the obligations of each of the Guarantors herein shall not be discharged or impaired or otherwise affected by the failure of the Holder to assert any claim or demand or to enforce any remedy under the Indenture, the Security or any other agreement, by any waiver or modification of any thereof, by any default, failure or delay, willful or otherwise, in the performance of the Obligations, or by any other act or thing or omission or delay to do any other act or thing which may or might in any manner or to any extent vary the risk of each of the Guarantors or would otherwise operate as a discharge of the Guarantors as a matter of law or equity.

Each of the Guarantors further agrees that this Guarantee shall continue to be effective or be reinstated, as the case may be, if at any time payment, or any part thereof, of principal of (and premium, if any) or interest on any of the Obligations is rescinded or must otherwise be restored by the Holder upon the bankruptcy or reorganization of the Company or otherwise.

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In furtherance of the foregoing and not in limitation of any other right which the Holder has at law or in equity against any of the Guarantors by virtue hereof, upon the failure of the Company to pay any of the Obligations when and as the same shall become due, whether at maturity, by acceleration, by redemption or otherwise, each of the Guarantors hereby promises to and shall, upon receipt of written demand by the Trustee, forthwith pay, or cause to be paid, in cash, to the Holder an amount equal to the sum of (i) the unpaid amount of such Obligations then due and owing and (ii) accrued and unpaid interest on such Obligations then due and owing (but only to the extent not prohibited by law).

Each of the Guarantors further agrees that, as between itself, on the one hand, and the Holder, on the other hand, (i) the maturity of the Obligations guaranteed hereby may be accelerated as provided in the Indenture for the purposes of this Guarantee, notwithstanding any stay, injunction or other prohibition preventing such acceleration in respect of the Obligations guaranteed hereby and (ii) in the event of any such declaration of acceleration of such Obligations, such Obligations (whether or not due and payable) shall forthwith become due and payable by such Guarantor for the purposes of this Guarantee.

Each of the Guarantors also agrees to pay any and all reasonable costs and expenses (including reasonable and out-of-pocket attorneys' fees) incurred by the Trustee or the Holder in enforcing any rights relating to the Securities under the Indenture.

Notwithstanding any payment or payments made by the Guarantors hereunder, none of the Guarantors shall be entitled to be subrogated to any of the rights of the Trustee or the Holder against the Company or any collateral security or guarantee or right of offset held by the Trustee or the Holder for the payment of the Obligations, nor shall any of the Guarantors seek or be entitled to seek any contribution or reimbursement from the Company or any other Guarantor in respect of payments made by such Guarantor hereunder, until all amounts owing to the Trustee and the Holder by the Company on account of the Obligations are paid in full. If any amount shall be paid to any of the Guarantors on account of such subrogation rights at any time when all of the Obligations shall not have been paid in full, such amount shall be held by such Guarantor in trust for the Trustee and the Holder, segregated from other funds of such Guarantor, and shall, forthwith upon receipt by such Guarantor, be turned over to the Trustee in the exact form received by such Guarantor (duly indorsed by such Guarantor to the Trustee, if required), to be applied against the Obligations.

Any notice or demand to be made upon, given or furnished to, or filed with any Guarantor shall be sufficient for every purpose hereunder if in writing and mailed, first-class postage prepaid, to such Guarantor at:

[Guarantor]

[Guarantor Address]

or to such other addresses as the Guarantor shall have notified the Holder or the Trustee in a written notice delivered in accordance with the Indenture.

This Guarantee shall remain in full force and effect and shall be binding on the Guarantor, its successors and assigns until all of the Obligations have been satisfied in full.

This Guarantee shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.

All terms used in this Guarantee which are defined in the Indenture shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Indenture.

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Guarantors have caused this instrument to be duly executed.

Dated:

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|:---|:---|
| [ ] | [ ] |
| By: |  |
|  | Name: |
|  | Title: |
| [ ] | [ ] |
| By: |  |
|  | Name: |
|  | Title: |
| [ ] | [ ] |
| By: |  |
|  | Name: |
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## Exhibit 5.2

**Exhibit 5.2** 

**BAKER & MCKENZIE LLP** 

10250 Constellation Boulevard

Suite 1850

Los Angeles, California 90067

July 28, 2025

Acuity Inc.

Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc.

Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc.

QSC, LLC

ABL IP Holding LLC

c/o Acuity Inc.

1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200

Atlanta, Georgia 30309

Re: <u>Post-Effective</u> <u>Amendment</u> <u>to</u> <u>Registration Statement</u>

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We have acted as special counsel to Acuity Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company"), Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("ABL"), Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc., a Delaware corporation ("AIS"), QSC, LLC, a California limited liability company ("QSC"), and ABL IP Holding LLC, a Georgia limited liability company ("ABL IP" and together with ABL, AIS and QSC, the "Guarantors", and each, individually, a "Guarantor"), in connection with the preparation and filing on the date hereof with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), of a post-effective amendment (the "Amendment"), excluding the documents incorporated by reference therein, to the registration statement on Form S-3 filed with the SEC on October 26, 2023 (the "Original Registration Statement"; the Original Registration Statement, as amended by the Amendment, is referred to herein as the "Registration Statement") relating to the offering from time to time of (i) one or more series of debt securities by the Company (the "Debt Securities") and (ii) guarantees, if any, of the Debt Securities (the "Guarantees") by the Guarantors. The Amendment includes a prospectus for offerings of Debt Securities and Guarantees (the "Prospectus"), which provides that it will be supplemented in the future by one or more supplements to the Prospectus (each, a "Prospectus Supplement") in connection with each offering of Debt Securities and, if applicable, Guarantees.

The Debt Securities and the Guarantees are to be issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of the date hereof (the "Indenture"), by and among the Company, the Guarantors and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (the "Trustee").

This opinion is being furnished in connection with the requirements of Item 601(b)(5) of Regulation S-K under the Securities Act, and no opinion is expressed herein as to any matter pertaining to the contents of the Registration Statement, the Prospectus or any Prospectus Supplement, other than as expressly stated herein with respect to the issuance of Debt Securities and Guarantees. In furtherance of the foregoing, with respect to the securities registered by the Registration Statement other than the Debt Securities and Guarantees, we note that you have received an opinion, dated October 26, 2023, of Foley & Larder LLP, which was filed as Exhibit 5.1 to the Original Registration Statement.

In rendering the opinions expressed below, we have examined originals or copies, certified or otherwise, of such instruments, corporate records, certificates of public officials and other persons, and other documents as we have deemed necessary or advisable for purposes of this opinion.

In rendering the opinions set forth below, we have assumed that (i) all information contained in all documents reviewed by us is true and correct; (ii) all signatures on all documents examined by us are genuine; (iii) all documents submitted to us as originals are authentic and all documents submitted to us as copies conform to the originals of those

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documents; (iv) each natural person signing any document reviewed by us had the legal capacity to do so; (v) each person signing in a representative capacity any document reviewed by us had authority to sign in such capacity; (vi) all documents (other than, to the extent of our opinions expressed below, the Indenture) reviewed by us have been duly authorized, executed and delivered by all parties thereto; (vii) the Registration Statement, and any additional post-effective amendments thereto, will be effective and comply with all applicable laws; (viii) one or more Prospectus Supplements will have been prepared and filed in a timely manner with the SEC describing the Debt Securities and any Guarantees offered thereby and will comply with all applicable laws; (ix) all Debt Securities and Guarantees will be issued and sold in compliance with applicable federal and state securities laws and in the manner stated in the Registration Statement and any applicable Prospectus Supplement; (x) none of the terms of any Debt Security or Guarantee, nor the issuance and delivery of such Debt Security or Guarantee, nor the compliance by the Company or any Guarantor with the terms thereof will violate any applicable law, will conflict with any matter of public policy, or will result in a breach of or default under any provision of any instrument or agreement then binding upon the Company or any Guarantor or any of its assets or properties or a violation of any restriction imposed by any court or governmental body having jurisdiction over the Company or any Guarantor or any of its assets or properties; (xi) the Indenture has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Trustee and is the valid and legally binding obligation of the Trustee; (xii) a definitive purchase, underwriting or similar agreement with respect to any Debt Securities and Guarantees offered will have been duly authorized and validly executed and delivered by the Company and the Guarantors, as applicable, and the other parties thereto; and (xiii) ABL IP is a validly existing limited liability company in good standing under the laws of the State of Georgia, has all necessary limited liability company power to execute and deliver and to perform its obligations under the Indenture, has taken all necessary limited liability company action to duly authorize the execution, delivery and performance of the Indenture and has duly executed the Indenture as a matter of Georgia law. As to any facts material to the opinions expressed herein, we have relied upon and assumed the accuracy of, without independent verification, written and oral statements and representations of officers and other representatives of the Company, the Guarantors and others and filings made by the Company and the Guarantors with the SEC.

Based on the foregoing, and in reliance thereon, and subject to the assumptions, qualifications, exclusions and other limitations contained herein, we are of the opinion that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. With respect to the Debt Securities, when (i) the Indenture has been duly qualified under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended; (ii) the Board of Directors of the Company, or persons duly authorized thereby, has taken all necessary corporate action to authorize and approve the issuance and terms of such Debt Securities, the terms of the offering thereof and related matters; (iii) such Debt Securities and any supplemental indenture or other instruments establishing such Debt Securities have been duly authorized, executed, authenticated, issued and delivered in accordance with the provisions of the Indenture; and (iv) such Debt Securities have been issued and sold as contemplated by the Registration Statement, the Prospectus and any related Prospectus Supplement, and in accordance with the applicable definitive purchase, underwriting or similar agreement approved by the Board of Directors of the Company, or persons duly authorized thereby, then upon such Debt Securities having been duly delivered to the purchasers thereof against payment of the consideration therefor, such Debt Securities will constitute valid and binding obligations of the Company, enforceable against the Company in accordance with their terms.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. With respect to the Guarantees, when (i) the Board of Directors or Board of Managers, as applicable, of each applicable Guarantor, or persons duly authorized thereby, has taken all necessary corporate or limited liability company, as applicable, action to authorize and approve the issuance and terms of such Guarantees, the terms of the offering thereof and related matters; (ii) such Guarantees and any supplemental indenture or other instruments establishing such Guarantees have been duly authorized, executed, authenticated, issued and delivered in accordance with the provisions of the Indenture; (iii) such Guarantees have been issued and sold as contemplated by the Registration Statement, the Prospectus and any related Prospectus Supplement, and in accordance with the applicable definitive purchase, underwriting or similar agreement approved by the Board of Directors of the Company and the Board of Directors or Board of Managers, as applicable, of each such Guarantor, or persons duly authorized thereby, and (iv) the conditions set forth in clauses (i) through (iv) in our opinion expressed in numbered paragraph 1 above have been satisfied with respect to the Debt Securities to which such Guarantees relate, then upon such Debt Securities and Guarantees having been duly delivered to the purchasers thereof against payment of the consideration therefor, such Guarantees will constitute valid and binding obligations of each such Guarantor, enforceable against each such Guarantor in accordance with their terms.

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Our opinions expressed above are subject to the effect of (i) any bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, fraudulent transfer, fraudulent conveyance, moratorium or other similar law affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights generally, (ii) general principles of equity (regardless of whether enforcement is considered in a proceeding in equity or at law), and (iii) public policy considerations which may limit the rights of parties to obtain certain remedies.

We express no opinion concerning the validity or enforceability of any provision (i) that purports to waive or does not give effect to rights to notices, defenses, subrogation or other rights or benefits that cannot be effectively waived under applicable law, including any right to a jury trial, (ii) that provides for indemnification, contribution or limitations on liability, or (iii) that requires a judgment or decree with respect to a security denominated in a currency other than U.S. dollars be awarded in U.S. dollars at a rate of exchange as of a particular date or converted into a currency other than U.S. dollars, in each case, to the extent applicable law otherwise provides. We also express no opinion as to whether a state court outside of the State of New York or a Federal court of the United States would give effect to the choice of New York law provided for in the Indenture or the Debt Securities or Guarantees.

The law covered by the opinions expressed above is limited to the laws of the State of New York, the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware and the California Revised Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. We express no opinion as to the laws of any other jurisdiction, or any other law of the State of Delaware or of the State of California, and no opinion regarding the statutes, administrative decisions, rules, regulations or requirements of any county, municipality, subdivision or local authority of any jurisdiction.

This opinion letter is limited to the specific issues addressed herein, and no opinion may be inferred or implied beyond that expressly stated herein. Debt Securities and Guarantees may be issued from time to time on a delayed or continuous basis, and this opinion is limited to the laws, including the rules and regulations, as in effect on the date hereof, which laws are subject to change with possible retroactive effect. We assume no obligation to revise or supplement this opinion letter should the present law of the State of New York, the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware or the California Revised Uniform Limited Liability Company Act be changed by legislative action, judicial decision or otherwise.

We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as Exhibit 5.2 to the Amendment and to the use of our name in the Prospectus forming a part of the Amendment under the caption "Validity of the Securities." In giving such consent, we do not thereby admit that we are in the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities Act or the rules and regulations of the SEC issued thereunder.

Very truly yours,

/s/ Baker & McKenzie LLP

## Exhibit 5.3

**Exhibit 5.3**![LOGO](g87918g0620171205767.jpg)

July 28, 2025

Acuity Inc.

ABL IP Holding LLC

1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200

Atlanta, Georgia 30309

Re: <u>Post-Effective</u> <u>Amendment</u> <u>to</u> <u>Registration Statement</u>

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am General Counsel of Acuity Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company"), and its subsidiary ABL IP Holding LLC, a Georgia limited liability company ("ABL IP"). The Company, ABL IP and certain other subsidiaries of the Company (ABL IP and such subsidiaries, the "Guarantors") are filing on the date hereof with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") a post-effective amendment (the "Amendment") to the registration statement on Form S-3 filed with the SEC on October 26, 2023 (the "Original Registration Statement"; the Original Registration Statement, as amended by the Amendment, is referred to herein as the "Registration Statement") relating to the offering from time to time of (i) one or more series of debt securities by the Company (the "Debt Securities") and (ii) guarantees, if any, of the Debt Securities (the "Guarantees") by ABL IP and the other Guarantors. The Amendment includes a prospectus for offerings of Debt Securities and Guarantees (the "Prospectus"), which provides that it will be supplemented in the future by one or more supplements to the Prospectus in connection with each offering of Debt Securities and, if applicable, Guarantees.

The Debt Securities and the Guarantees are to be issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of the date hereof (the "Indenture"), by and among the Company, the Guarantors and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee.

In rendering the opinions expressed below, I have relied upon my examination or the examination by attorneys acting under my supervision of originals or copies, certified or otherwise, of such instruments, corporate records, certificates of public officials and other persons, and other documents as we have deemed necessary or advisable for purposes of this opinion. As to questions of fact material to this opinion, I have relied upon certificates or comparable documents or statements of public officials and of officers and representatives of ABL IP.

In rendering the opinions contained herein, I have assumed (i) the genuineness of all signatures, (ii) the legal capacity of natural persons and (iii) the authenticity of all documents submitted to me as originals, the conformity to original documents of all documents submitted to me as copies and the authenticity of the originals of such latter documents.

Based upon the foregoing, and subject to the qualifications, assumptions and limitations stated herein, I am of the opinion as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. ABL IP is a validly existing limited liability company in good standing under the laws of the State of Georgia.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. ABL IP has all necessary limited liability company power to execute and deliver and to perform its obligations under the Indenture.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. ABL IP has taken all necessary limited liability company action to duly authorize the execution, delivery and performance of the Indenture.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4. ABL IP has duly executed the Indenture as a matter of Georgia law.

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This opinion letter is limited to the matters expressly set forth above and is given only as of the date hereof. I assume no obligation to update or supplement this opinion letter to reflect any facts or circumstances that may hereafter come to my attention or any change in laws that may hereafter occur.

I am a member of the Bar of the State of Georgia. My opinions expressed herein are limited to the Georgia Limited Liability Company Act, and I do not express any opinion herein concerning any other law, including, without limitation, any other law of the State of Georgia. With respect to the securities registered by the Registration Statement other than the Debt Securities and Guarantees, I note that you have received an opinion, dated October 26, 2023, of Foley & Larder LLP, which was filed as Exhibit 5.1 to the Original Registration Statement.

I hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as Exhibit 5.3 to the Amendment and to the use of my name in the Prospectus forming a part of the Amendment under the caption "Validity of the Securities." In giving such consent, I do not thereby admit that I am in the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities Act or the rules and regulations of the SEC issued thereunder.

Sincerely,

/s/ Barry R. Goldman

Barry R. Goldman, General Counsel

## Exhibit 23.1

**Exhibit 23.1** 

**Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm** 

We consent to the reference of our firm under the caption "Experts" in the Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Form S-3 Registration Statement (No. 333-275184) and related Prospectus of Acuity Inc. for the registration of debt securities of Acuity Inc. and the guarantees of these debt securities by Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc., QSC, LLC, and ABL IP Holding LLC and to the incorporation by reference therein of our reports dated October 28, 2024, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Acuity Inc. (formerly known as Acuity Brands, Inc.), and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Acuity Inc. (formerly known as Acuity Brands, Inc.), included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended August 31, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Atlanta, Georgia

July 28, 2025

## Exhibit 25.6

**Exhibit 25.6** 

**UNITED STATES** 

**SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION** 

**Washington, D.C. 20549** 

**FORM T-1** 

**STATEMENT OF ELIGIBILITY** 

**UNDER THE TRUST INDENTURE ACT OF 1939** 

**OF A CORPORATION DESIGNATED TO ACT AS TRUSTEE** 

☐ **Check if an Application to Determine Eligibility of a Trustee Pursuant to Section 305(b)(2)** 

**U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION** 

**(Exact name of Trustee as specified in its charter)** 

**91-1821036** 

**I.R.S. Employer Identification No.** 

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **800 Nicollet Mall**<br> **Minneapolis, Minnesota** | **55402** |
| **(Address of principal executive offices)** | **(Zip Code)** |

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**Chelsey Jordan** 

**U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association** 

**2 Concourse Pkwy NE, Ste 800** 

**Atlanta, GA 30328** 

**(404) 898-2458** 

**(Name, address and telephone number of agent for service)** 

**ACUITY INC.\*** 

**\*and each of the additional registrants listed on the next page** 

**(Issuer with respect to the Securities)** 

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Delaware** | **58-2632672** |
| **(State or other jurisdiction of**<br> **incorporation or organization)** | **(I.R.S. Employer**<br> **Identification No.)** |

---

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **1170 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 1200**<br> **Atlanta, GA** | **30309** |
| **(Address of Principal Executive Offices)** | **(Zip Code)** |

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**Debt Securities** 

**(and guarantees thereof)** 

**(Title of the Indenture Securities)** 

**TABLE OF CO-REGISTRANTS**

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Exact name of Registrant\*** | **Jurisdiction of Formation** | **I.R.S. Employer**<br> **Identification No.** |
| Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. | Delaware | 58-2633371 |
| Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc. | Delaware | 31-1832408 |
| QSC, LLC | California | 95-3412527 |
| ABL IP Holding LLC | Georgia | 93-4672136 |

---

\* The address for each of the additional registrants is c/o Acuity Inc., 1170 Peachtree Street, N.E. Suite 1200, Atlanta, Georgia 30309.

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**<u>FORM T-1</u>**

**Item 1.** **GENERAL INFORMATION*.*** Furnish the following information as to the Trustee. <br>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;a) *Name and address of each examining or supervising authority to which it is subject.* 

Comptroller of the Currency

Washington, D.C.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;b) *Whether it is authorized to exercise corporate trust powers.* 

Yes

**Item 2.** **AFFILIATIONS WITH THE OBLIGOR.** *If the obligor is an affiliate of the Trustee, describe each such affiliation.* <br>

None

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Items 3-15** | *Items 3-15 are not applicable because to the best of the Trustee's knowledge, the obligor is not in default under any Indenture for which the Trustee acts as Trustee.*  |

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**Item 16.** **LIST OF EXHIBITS:** *List below all exhibits filed as a part of this statement of eligibility and qualification.* <br>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. A copy of the Articles of Association of the Trustee, attached as Exhibit 1.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. A copy of the certificate of authority of the Trustee to commence business, attached as Exhibit 2.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. A copy of the authorization of the Trustee to exercise corporate trust powers, included as Exhibit 2.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4. A copy of the existing bylaws of the Trustee, attached as Exhibit 4.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5. A copy of each Indenture referred to in Item 4. Not applicable.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6. The consent of the Trustee required by Section 321(b) of the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, attached as
Exhibit 6.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7. Report of Condition of the Trustee as of March 31, 2025, published pursuant to law or the requirements of
its supervising or examining authority, attached as Exhibit 7.

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**SIGNATURE** 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended, the Trustee, U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, a national banking association organized and existing under the laws of the United States of America, has duly caused this statement of eligibility and qualification to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, all in the City of Atlanta, State of Georgia on the 23rd of June, 2025.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| By: | /s/ Chelsey Jordan |
|  | Chelsey Jordan |
|  | Assistant Vice President |

---

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**<u>Exhibit 1</u>**

**ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION** 

**OF** 

**U. S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION** 

For the purpose of organizing an association (the "Association") to perform any lawful activities of national banks, the undersigned enter into the following Articles of Association:

**FIRST.** The title of this Association shall be U. S. Bank Trust Company, National Association.

**SECOND.** The main office of the Association shall be in the city of Portland, county of Multnomah, state of Oregon. The business of the Association will be limited to fiduciary powers and the support of activities incidental to the exercise of those powers. The Association may not expand or alter its business beyond that stated in this article without the prior approval of the Comptroller of the Currency.

**THIRD.** The board of directors of the Association shall consist of not less than five nor more than twenty-five persons, the exact number to be fixed and determined from time to time by resolution of a majority of the full board of directors or by resolution of a majority of the shareholders at any annual or special meeting thereof. Each director shall own common or preferred stock of the Association or of a holding company owning the Association, with an aggregate par, fair market, or equity value of not less than $1,000, as of either (i) the date of purchase, (ii) the date the person became a director, or (iii) the date of that person's most recent election to the board of directors, whichever is more recent. Any combination of common or preferred stock of the Association or holding company may be used.

Any vacancy in the board of directors may be filled by action of a majority of the remaining directors between meetings of shareholders. The board of directors may increase the number of directors up to the maximum permitted by law. Terms of directors, including directors selected to fill vacancies, shall expire at the next regular meeting of shareholders at which directors are elected, unless the directors resign or are removed from office. Despite the expiration of a director's term, the director shall continue to serve until his or her successor is elected and qualified or until there is a decrease in the number of directors and his or her position is eliminated.

Honorary or advisory members of the board of directors, without voting power or power of final decision in matters concerning the business of the Association, may be appointed by resolution of a majority of the full board of directors, or by resolution of shareholders at any annual or special meeting. Honorary or advisory directors shall not be counted to determined the number of directors of the Association or the presence of a quorum in connection with any board action, and shall not be required to own qualifying shares.

**FOURTH.** There shall be an annual meeting of the shareholders to elect directors and transact whatever other business may be brought before the meeting. It shall be held at the main office or any other convenient place the board of directors may designate, on the day of each year specified therefor in the Bylaws, or if that day falls on a legal holiday in the state in which the

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Association is located, on the next following banking day. If no election is held on the day fixed or in the event of a legal holiday on the following banking day, an election may be held on any subsequent day within 60 days of the day fixed, to be designated by the board of directors, or, if the directors fail to fix the day, by shareholders representing two-thirds of the shares issued and outstanding. In all cases, at least 10 days' advance notice of the meeting shall be given to the shareholders by first-class mail.

In all elections of directors, the number of votes each common shareholder may cast will be determined by multiplying the number of shares he or she owns by the number of directors to be elected. Those votes may be cumulated and cast for a single candidate or may be distributed among two or more candidates in the manner selected by the shareholder. On all other questions, each common shareholder shall be entitled to one vote for each share of stock held by him or her.

A director may resign at any time by delivering written notice to the board of directors, its chairperson, or to the Association, which resignation shall be effective when the notice is delivered unless the notice specifies a later effective date.

A director may be removed by the shareholders at a meeting called to remove him or her, when notice of the meeting stating that the purpose or one of the purposes is to remove him or her is provided, if there is a failure to fulfill one of the affirmative requirements for qualification, or for cause; provided, however, that a director may not be removed if the number of votes sufficient to elect him or her under cumulative voting is voted against his or her removal.

**FIFTH.** The authorized amount of capital stock of the Association shall be 1,000,000 shares of common stock of the par value of ten dollars ($10) each; but said capital stock may be increased or decreased from time to time, according to the provisions of the laws of the United States. The Association shall have only one class of capital stock.

No holder of shares of the capital stock of any class of the Association shall have any preemptive or preferential right of subscription to any shares of any class of stock of the Association, whether now or hereafter authorized, or to any obligations convertible into stock of the Association, issued, or sold, nor any right of subscription to any thereof other than such, if any, as the board of directors, in its discretion, may from time to time determine and at such price as the board of directors may from time to time fix.

Transfers of the Association's stock are subject to the prior written approval of a federal depository institution regulatory agency. If no other agency approval is required, the approval of the Comptroller of the Currency must be obtained prior to any such transfers.

Unless otherwise specified in the Articles of Association or required by law, (1) all matters requiring shareholder action, including amendments to the Articles of Association must be approved by shareholders owning a majority voting interest in the outstanding voting stock, and (2) each shareholder shall be entitled to one vote per share.

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Unless otherwise specified in the Articles of Association or required by law, all shares of voting stock shall be voted together as a class, on any matters requiring shareholder approval.

Unless otherwise provided in the Bylaws, the record date for determining shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at any meeting is the close of business on the day before the first notice is mailed or otherwise sent to the shareholders, provided that in no event may a record date be more than 70 days before the meeting.

The Association, at any time and from time to time, may authorize and issue debt obligations, whether subordinated, without the approval of the shareholders. Obligations classified as debt, whether subordinated, which may be issued by the Association without the approval of shareholders, do not carry voting rights on any issue, including an increase or decrease in the aggregate number of the securities, or the exchange or reclassification of all or part of securities into securities of another class or series.

**SIXTH.** The board of directors shall appoint one of its members president of this Association and one of its members chairperson of the board and shall have the power to appoint one or more vice presidents, a secretary who shall keep minutes of the directors' and shareholders' meetings and be responsible for authenticating the records of the Association, and such other officers and employees as may be required to transact the business of this Association. A duly appointed officer may appoint one or more officers or assistant officers if authorized by the board of directors in accordance with the Bylaws.

The board of directors shall have the power to:

(1) Define the duties of the officers, employees, and agents of the Association.

(2) Delegate the performance of its duties, but not the responsibility for its duties, to the officers, employees,
and agents of the Association.

(3) Fix the compensation and enter employment contracts with its officers and employees upon reasonable terms and
conditions consistent with applicable law.

(4) Dismiss officers and employees.

(5) Require bonds from officers and employees and to fix the penalty thereof.

(6) Ratify written policies authorized by the Association's management or committees of the board.

(7) Regulate the manner any increase or decrease of the capital of the Association shall be made; provided that
nothing herein shall restrict the power of shareholders to increase or decrease the capital of the Association in accordance with law, and nothing shall raise or lower from two-thirds the percentage required
for shareholder approval to increase or reduce the capital.

------

(8) Manage and administer the business and affairs of the Association.

(9) Adopt initial Bylaws, not inconsistent with law or the Articles of Association, for managing the business and
regulating the affairs of the Association.

(10) Amend or repeal Bylaws, except to the extent that the Articles of Association reserve this power in whole or in
part to the shareholders.

(11) Make contracts.

(12) Generally perform all acts that are legal for a board of directors to perform.

**SEVENTH.** The board of directors shall have the power to change the location of the main office to any authorized branch within the limits of the city of Portland, Oregon, without the approval of the shareholders, or with a vote of shareholders owning two-thirds of the stock of the Association for a location outside such limits and upon receipt of a certificate of approval from the Comptroller of the Currency, to any other location within or outside the limits of the city of Portland, Oregon, but not more than thirty miles beyond such limits. The board of directors shall have the power to establish or change the location of any office or offices of the Association to any other location permitted under applicable law, without approval of shareholders, subject to approval by the Comptroller of the Currency.

**EIGHTH.** The corporate existence of this Association shall continue until termination according to the laws of the United States.

**NINTH.** The board of directors of the Association, or any shareholder owning, in the aggregate, not less than 25 percent of the stock of the Association, may call a special meeting of shareholders at any time. Unless otherwise provided by the Bylaws or the laws of the United States, or waived by shareholders, a notice of the time, place, and purpose of every annual and special meeting of the shareholders shall be given by first-class mail, postage prepaid, mailed at least 10, and no more than 60, days prior to the date of the meeting to each shareholder of record at his/her address as shown upon the books of the Association. Unless otherwise provided by the Bylaws, any action requiring approval of shareholders must be effected at a duly called annual or special meeting.

**TENTH.** These Articles of Association may be amended at any regular or special meeting of the shareholders by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the stock of the Association, unless the vote of the holders of a greater amount of stock is required by law, and in that case by the vote of the holders of such greater amount; provided, that the scope of the Association's activities and services may not be expanded without the prior written approval of the Comptroller of the Currency. The Association's board of directors may propose one or more amendments to the Articles of Association for submission to the shareholders.

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In witness whereof, we have hereunto set our hands this 11<sup>th</sup> of June, 1997.

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| |
|:---|
| /s/ Jeffrey T. Grubb |
| Jeffrey T. Grubb |
| /s/ Robert D. Sznewajs |
| Robert D. Sznewajs |
| /s/ Dwight V. Board |
| Dwight V. Board |
| /s/ P. K. Chatterjee |
| P. K. Chatterjee |
| /s/ Robert Lane |
| Robert Lane |

---

------

**<u>Exhibit 2</u>**

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| ![LOGO](g87918dsp28a.jpg) | Office of the Comptroller of the Currency | |
| ![LOGO](g87918dsp28a.jpg) |  | Washington, DC 20219 |

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**CERTIFICATE OF CORPORATE EXISTENCE AND FIDUCIARY POWERS**

I, Rodney E. Hood, Acting Comptroller of the Currency, do hereby certify that:

1. The Comptroller of the Currency, pursuant to Revised Statutes 324, et seq, as amended, and 12 USC 1, et seq, as amended, has possession, custody, and control of all records pertaining to the chartering, regulation, and supervision of all national banking associations.

2. "U.S. Bank Trust Company National Association," Portland, Oregon (Charter No. 23412), is a national banking association formed under the laws of the United States and is authorized thereunder to transact the business of banking and exercise fiduciary powers on the date of this certificate.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, today, March 31*,* 2025, I have hereunto subscribed my name and caused my seal of office to be affixed to these presents at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, in the City of Washington, District of Columbia.

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| |
|:---|
| ![LOGO](g87918dsp28b.jpg) |
| Acting Comptroller of the Currency |

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![LOGO](g87918dsp28c.jpg)

2025-00742-C

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**<u>Exhibit 4</u>**

**U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION<u> </u>**

**<u>AMENDED AND RESTATED BYLAWS</u>**

<u>ARTICLE I</u> 

<u>Meetings of Shareholders</u> 

Section 1.1. <u>Annual Meeting</u>. The annual meeting of the shareholders, for the election of directors and the transaction of any other proper business, shall be held at a time and place as the Chairman or President may designate. Notice of such meeting shall be given not less than ten (10) days or more than sixty (60) days prior to the date thereof, to each shareholder of the Association, unless the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the "OCC") determines that an emergency circumstance exists. In accordance with applicable law, the sole shareholder of the Association is permitted to waive notice of the meeting. If, for any reason, an election of directors is not made on the designated day, the election shall be held on some subsequent day, as soon thereafter as practicable, with prior notice thereof. Failure to hold an annual meeting as required by these Bylaws shall not affect the validity of any corporate action or work a forfeiture or dissolution of the Association.

Section 1.2. <u>Special Meetings</u>. Except as otherwise specially provided by law, special meetings of the shareholders may be called for any purpose, at any time by a majority of the board of directors (the "Board"), or by any shareholder or group of shareholders owning at least ten percent of the outstanding stock.

Every such special meeting, unless otherwise provided by law, shall be called upon not less than ten (10) days nor more than sixty (60) days prior notice stating the purpose of the meeting.

Section 1.3. <u>Nominations for Directors</u>. Nominations for election to the Board may be made by the Board or by any shareholder.

Section 1.4. <u>Proxies</u>. Shareholders may vote at any meeting of the shareholders by proxies duly authorized in writing. Proxies shall be valid only for one meeting and any adjournments of such meeting and shall be filed with the records of the meeting.

Section 1.5. <u>Record Date</u>. The record date for determining shareholders entitled to notice and to vote at any meeting will be thirty days before the date of such meeting, unless otherwise determined by the Board.

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Section 1.6. <u>Quorum and Voting</u>. A majority of the outstanding capital stock, represented in person or by proxy, shall constitute a quorum at any meeting of shareholders, unless otherwise provided by law, but less than a quorum may adjourn any meeting, from time to time, and the meeting may be held as adjourned without further notice. A majority of the votes cast shall decide every question or matter submitted to the shareholders at any meeting, unless otherwise provided by law or by the Articles of Association.

Section 1.7. <u>Inspectors</u>. The Board may, and in the event of its failure so to do, the Chairman of the Board may appoint Inspectors of Election who shall determine the presence of quorum, the validity of proxies, and the results of all elections and all other matters voted upon by shareholders at all annual and special meetings of shareholders.

Section 1.8. <u>Waiver and Consent</u>. The shareholders may act without notice or a meeting by a unanimous written consent by all shareholders.

Section 1.9. <u>Remote Meetings</u>. The Board shall have the right to determine that a shareholder meeting not be held at a place, but instead be held solely by means of remote communication in the manner and to the extent permitted by the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.

<u>ARTICLE II</u> 

<u>Directors</u> 

Section 2.1. <u>Board of Directors</u>. The Board shall have the power to manage and administer the business and affairs of the Association. Except as expressly limited by law, all corporate powers of the Association shall be vested in and may be exercised by the Board.

Section 2.2. <u>Term of Office</u>. The directors of this Association shall hold office for one year and until their successors are duly elected and qualified, or until their earlier resignation or removal.

Section 2.3. <u>Powers</u>. In addition to the foregoing, the Board shall have and may exercise all of the powers granted to or conferred upon it by the Articles of Association, the Bylaws and by law.

Section 2.4. <u>Number</u>. As provided in the Articles of Association, the Board of this Association shall consist of no less than five nor more than twenty-five members, unless the OCC has exempted the Association from the twenty-five- member limit. The Board shall consist of a number of members to be fixed and determined from time to time by resolution of the Board or the shareholders at any meeting thereof, in accordance with the Articles of Association. Between meetings of the shareholders held for the purpose of electing directors, the Board

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by a majority vote of the full Board may increase the size of the Board but not to more than a total of twenty-five directors, and fill any vacancy so created in the Board; provided that the Board may increase the number of directors only by up to two directors, when the number of directors last elected by shareholders was fifteen or fewer, and by up to four directors, when the number of directors last elected by shareholders was sixteen or more. Each director shall own a qualifying equity interest in the Association or a company that has control of the Association in each case as required by applicable law. Each director shall own such qualifying equity interest in his or her own right and meet any minimum threshold ownership required by applicable law.

Section 2.5. <u>Organization Meeting</u>. The newly elected Board shall meet for the purpose of organizing the new Board and electing and appointing such officers of the Association as may be appropriate. Such meeting shall be held on the day of the election or as soon thereafter as practicable, and, in any event, within thirty days thereafter, at such time and place as the Chairman or President may designate. If, at the time fixed for such meeting, there shall not be a quorum present, the directors present may adjourn the meeting until a quorum is obtained.

Section 2.6. <u>Regular Meetings</u>. The regular meetings of the Board shall be held, without notice, as the Chairman or President may designate and deem suitable.

Section 2.7. <u>Special Meetings</u>. Special meetings of the Board may be called at any time, at any place and for any purpose by the Chairman of the Board or the President of the Association, or upon the request of a majority of the entire Board. Notice of every special meeting of the Board shall be given to the directors at their usual places of business, or at such other addresses as shall have been furnished by them for the purpose. Such notice shall be given at least twelve hours (three hours if meeting is to be conducted by conference telephone) before the meeting by telephone or by being personally delivered, mailed, or electronically delivered. Such notice need not include a statement of the business to be transacted at, or the purpose of, any such meeting.

Section 2.8. <u>Quorum and Necessary Vote</u>. A majority of the directors shall constitute a quorum at any meeting of the Board, except when otherwise provided by law; but less than a quorum may adjourn any meeting, from time to time, and the meeting may be held as adjourned without further notice. Unless otherwise provided by law or the Articles or Bylaws of this Association, once a quorum is established, any act by a majority of those directors present and voting shall be the act of the Board.

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Section 2.9. <u>Written Consent</u>. Except as otherwise required by applicable laws and regulations, the Board may act without a meeting by a unanimous written consent by all directors, to be filed with the Secretary of the Association as part of the corporate records.

Section 2.10. <u>Remote Meetings</u>. Members of the Board, or of any committee thereof, may participate in a meeting of such Board or committee by means of conference telephone, video or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other and such participation shall constitute presence in person at such meeting.

Section 2.11. <u>Vacancies</u>. When any vacancy occurs among the directors, the remaining members of the Board may appoint a director to fill such vacancy at any regular meeting of the Board, or at a special meeting called for that purpose.

<u>ARTICLE III</u> 

<u>Committees</u> 

Section 3.1. <u>Advisory Board of Directors</u>. The Board may appoint persons, who need not be directors, to serve as advisory directors on an advisory board of directors established with respect to the business affairs of either this Association alone or the business affairs of a group of affiliated organizations of which this Association is one. Advisory directors shall have such powers and duties as may be determined by the Board, provided, that the Board's responsibility for the business and affairs of this Association shall in no respect be delegated or diminished.

Section 3.2. <u>Trust Audit Committee</u>. At least once during each calendar year, the Association shall arrange for a suitable audit (by internal or external auditors) of all significant fiduciary activities under the direction of its trust audit committee, a function that will be fulfilled by the Audit Committee of the financial holding company that is the ultimate parent of this Association. The Association shall note the results of the audit (including significant actions taken as a result of the audit) in the minutes of the Board. In lieu of annual audits, the Association may adopt a continuous audit system in accordance with 12 C.F.R. § 9.9(b).

The Audit Committee of the financial holding company that is the ultimate parent of this Association, fulfilling the function of the trust audit committee:

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Must not include any officers of the Association or an affiliate who participate significantly in the administration of the Association's fiduciary activities; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Must consist of a majority of members who are not also members of any committee to which the Board has delegated power to manage and control the fiduciary activities of the Association.

Section 3.3. <u>Executive Committee</u>. The Board may appoint an Executive Committee which shall consist of at least three directors and which shall have, and may exercise, to the extent permitted by applicable law, all the powers of the Board between meetings of the Board or otherwise when the Board is not meeting.

Section 3.4. <u>Trust Management Committee</u>. The Board of this Association shall appoint a Trust Management Committee to provide oversight of the fiduciary activities of the Association. The Trust Management Committee shall determine policies governing fiduciary activities. The Trust Management Committee or such sub-committees, officers or others as may be duly designated by the Trust Management Committee shall oversee the processes related to fiduciary activities to assure conformity with fiduciary policies it establishes, including ratifying the acceptance and the closing out or relinquishment of all trusts. The Trust Management Committee will provide regular reports of its activities to the Board.

Section 3.5. <u>Other Committees</u>. The Board may appoint, from time to time, committees of one or more persons who need not be directors, for such purposes and with such powers as the Board may determine; however, the Board will not delegate to any committee any powers or responsibilities that it is prohibited from delegating under any law or regulation. In addition, either the Chairman or the President may appoint, from time to time, committees of one or more officers, employees, agents or other persons, for such purposes and with such powers as either the Chairman or the President deems appropriate and proper. Whether appointed by the Board, the Chairman, or the President, any such committee shall at all times be subject to the direction and control of the Board.

Section 3.6. <u>Meetings, Minutes and Rules</u>. An advisory board of directors and/or committee shall meet as necessary in consideration of the purpose of the advisory board of directors or committee, and shall maintain minutes in sufficient detail to indicate actions taken or recommendations made; unless required by the members, discussions, votes or other specific details need not be reported. An advisory board of directors or a committee may, in consideration of its purpose, adopt its own rules for the exercise of any of its functions or authority.

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<u>ARTICLE IV</u> 

<u>Officers</u> 

Section 4.1. <u>Chairman of the Board</u>. The Board may appoint one of its members to be Chairman of the Board to serve at the pleasure of the Board. The Chairman shall supervise the carrying out of the policies adopted or approved by the Board; shall have general executive powers, as well as the specific powers conferred by these Bylaws; and shall also have and may exercise such powers and duties as from time to time may be conferred upon or assigned by the Board.

Section 4.2. <u>President</u>. The Board may appoint one of its members to be President of the Association. In the absence of the Chairman, the President shall preside at any meeting of the Board. The President shall have general executive powers, and shall have and may exercise any and all other powers and duties pertaining by law, regulation or practice, to the office of President, or imposed by these Bylaws. The President shall also have and may exercise such powers and duties as from time to time may be conferred or assigned by the Board.

Section 4.3. <u>Vice President</u>. The Board may appoint one or more Vice Presidents who shall have such powers and duties as may be assigned by the Board and to perform the duties of the President on those occasions when the President is absent, including presiding at any meeting of the Board in the absence of both the Chairman and President.

Section 4.4. <u>Secretary</u>. The Board shall appoint a Secretary, or other designated officer who shall be Secretary of the Board and of the Association, and shall keep accurate minutes of all meetings. The Secretary shall attend to the giving of all notices required by these Bylaws to be given; shall be custodian of the corporate seal, records, documents and papers of the Association; shall provide for the keeping of proper records of all transactions of the Association; shall, upon request, authenticate any records of the Association; shall have and may exercise any and all other powers and duties pertaining by law, regulation or practice, to the Secretary, or imposed by these Bylaws; and shall also perform such other duties as may be assigned from time to time by the Board. The Board may appoint one or more Assistant Secretaries with such powers and duties as the Board, the President or the Secretary shall from time to time determine.

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Section 4.5. <u>Other Officers</u>. The Board may appoint, and may authorize the Chairman, the President or any other officer to appoint, any officer as from time to time may appear to the Board, the Chairman, the President or such other officer to be required or desirable to transact the business of the Association. Such officers shall exercise such powers and perform such duties as pertain to their several offices, or as may be conferred upon or assigned to them by these Bylaws, the Board, the Chairman, the President or such other authorized officer. Any person may hold two offices.

Section 4.6. <u>Tenure of Office</u>. The Chairman or the President and all other officers shall hold office until their respective successors are elected and qualified or until their earlier death, resignation, retirement, disqualification or removal from office, subject to the right of the Board or authorized officer to discharge any officer at any time.

<u>ARTICLE V</u> 

<u>Stock</u> 

Section 5.1. The Board may authorize the issuance of stock either in certificated or in uncertificated form. Certificates for shares of stock shall be in such form as the Board may from time to time prescribe. If the Board issues certificated stock, the certificate shall be signed by the President, Secretary or any other such officer as the Board so determines. Shares of stock shall be transferable on the books of the Association, and a transfer book shall be kept in which all transfers of stock shall be recorded. Every person becoming a shareholder by such transfer shall, in proportion to such person's shares, succeed to all rights of the prior holder of such shares. Each certificate of stock shall recite on its face that the stock represented thereby is transferable only upon the books of the Association properly endorsed. The Board may impose conditions upon the transfer of the stock reasonably calculated to simplify the work of the Association for stock transfers, voting at shareholder meetings, and related matters, and to protect it against fraudulent transfers.

<u>ARTICLE VI</u> 

<u>Corporate Seal</u> 

Section 6.1. The Association shall have no corporate seal; provided, however, that if the use of a seal is required by, or is otherwise convenient or advisable pursuant to, the laws or regulations of any jurisdiction, the following seal may be used, and the Chairman, the President, the Secretary and any Assistant Secretary shall have the authority to affix such seal:

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<u>ARTICLE VII</u> 

<u>Miscellaneous Provisions</u> 

Section 7.1. <u>Execution of Instruments</u>. All agreements, checks, drafts, orders, indentures, notes, mortgages, deeds, conveyances, transfers, endorsements, assignments, certificates, declarations, receipts, discharges, releases, satisfactions, settlements, petitions, schedules, accounts, affidavits, bonds, undertakings, guarantees, proxies and other instruments or documents may be signed, countersigned, executed, acknowledged, endorsed, verified, delivered or accepted on behalf of the Association, whether in a fiduciary capacity or otherwise, by any officer of the Association, or such employee or agent as may be designated from time to time by the Board by resolution, or by the Chairman or the President by written instrument, which resolution or instrument shall be certified as in effect by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Association. The provisions of this section are supplementary to any other provision of the Articles of Association or Bylaws.

Section 7.2. <u>Records</u>. The Articles of Association, the Bylaws as revised or amended from time to time and the proceedings of all meetings of the shareholders, the Board, and standing committees of the Board, shall be recorded in appropriate minute books provided for the purpose. The minutes of each meeting shall be signed by the Secretary, or other officer appointed to act as Secretary of the meeting.

Section 7.3. <u>Trust Files</u>. There shall be maintained in the Association files all fiduciary records necessary to assure that its fiduciary responsibilities have been properly undertaken and discharged.

Section 7.4. <u>Trust Investments</u>. Funds held in a fiduciary capacity shall be invested according to the instrument establishing the fiduciary relationship and according to law. Where such instrument does not specify the character and class of investments to be made and does not vest in the Association a discretion in the matter, funds held pursuant to such instrument shall be invested in investments in which corporate fiduciaries may invest under law.

Section 7.5. <u>Notice</u>. Whenever notice is required by the Articles of Association, the Bylaws or law, such notice shall be by mail, postage prepaid, e- mail, in person, or by any other means by which such notice can reasonably be expected to be received, using the address of the person to receive such notice, or such other personal data, as may appear on the records of the Association.

Except where specified otherwise in these Bylaws, prior notice shall be proper if given not more than 30 days nor less than 10 days prior to the event for which notice is given.

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<u>ARTICLE VIII</u> 

<u>Indemnification</u> 

Section 8.1. The Association shall indemnify such persons for such liabilities in such manner under such circumstances and to such extent as permitted by Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, as now enacted or hereafter amended. The Board may authorize the purchase and maintenance of insurance and/or the execution of individual agreements for the purpose of such indemnification, and the Association shall advance all reasonable costs and expenses (including attorneys' fees) incurred in defending any action, suit or proceeding to all persons entitled to indemnification under this Section 8.1. Such insurance shall be consistent with the requirements of 12 C.F.R. § 7.2014 and shall exclude coverage of liability for a formal order assessing civil money penalties against an institution-affiliated party, as defined at 12 U.S.C. § 1813(u).

Section 8.2. Notwithstanding Section 8.1, however, (a) any indemnification payments to an institution-affiliated party, as defined at 12 U.S.C. § 1813(u), for an administrative proceeding or civil action initiated by a federal banking agency, shall be reasonable and consistent with the requirements of 12 U.S.C. § 1828(k) and the implementing regulations thereunder; and (b) any indemnification payments and advancement of costs and expenses to an institution-affiliated party, as defined at 12 U.S.C. § 1813(u), in cases involving an administrative proceeding or civil action not initiated by a federal banking agency, shall be in accordance with Delaware General Corporation Law and consistent with safe and sound banking practices.

<u>ARTICLE IX</u> 

<u>Bylaws: Interpretation and Amendment</u> 

Section 9.1. These Bylaws shall be interpreted in accordance with and subject to appropriate provisions of law, and may be added to, altered, amended, or repealed, at any regular or special meeting of the Board.

Section 9.2. A copy of the Bylaws and all amendments shall at all times be kept in a convenient place at the principal office of the Association, and shall be open for inspection to all shareholders during Association hours.

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<u>ARTICLE X</u> 

<u>Miscellaneous Provisions</u> 

Section 10.1. <u>Fiscal Year</u>. The fiscal year of the Association shall begin on the first day of January in each year and shall end on the thirty-first day of December following.

Section 10.2. <u>Governing Law</u>. This Association designates the Delaware General Corporation Law, as amended from time to time, as the governing law for its corporate governance procedures, to the extent not inconsistent with Federal banking statutes and regulations or bank safety and soundness.

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(February 8, 2021)

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**<u>Exhibit 6</u>**

**CONSENT** 

In accordance with Section 321(b) of the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, the undersigned, U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION hereby consents that reports of examination of the undersigned by Federal, State, Territorial or District authorities may be furnished by such authorities to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon its request therefor.

Dated: June 23, 2025

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| By: | /s/ Chelsey Jordan |
|  | Chelsey Jordan |
|  | Assistant Vice President |

---

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**<u>Exhibit 7</u>**

**U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association** 

**Statement of Financial Condition** 

**as of 3/31/2025** 

**($000's)** 

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
|  | **3/31/2025** |
|  **Assets** |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cash and Balances Due From<br>Depository Institutions | $1748785 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Securities | 4557 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Federal Funds | 0 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Loans & Lease Financing Receivables | 0 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fixed Assets | 896 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Intangible Assets | 575665 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Other Assets | 156612 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Total Assets** | $**2486515** |
|  **Liabilities** |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Deposits | $0 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fed Funds | 0 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Treasury Demand Notes | 0 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Trading Liabilities | 0 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Other Borrowed Money | 0 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Acceptances | 0 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Subordinated Notes and Debentures | 0 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Other Liabilities | 222718 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Total Liabilities** | $**222718** |
|  **Equity** |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Common and Preferred Stock | 200 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Surplus | 1171635 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Undivided Profits | 1091962 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Minority Interest in Subsidiaries | 0 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Total Equity Capital** | $**2263797** |
|  **Total Liabilities and Equity Capital** | $**2486515** |

---

## Ex-Filing

?xml version='1.0' encoding='ASCII'? EX-FILING FEES

Exhibit 107

Calculation of Filing Fee Tables

Form S-3

(Form Type)

Acuity Inc.

Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc.

Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc.

QSC, LLC

ABL IP Holding LLC

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its

Charter)

Table 1: Newly Registered and Carry Forward Securities

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| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | Security<br>Type | Security<br>Class Title | Fee<br>Calculation<br>or Carry<br>Forward<br>Rule | Amount<br>Registered(1) | Proposed<br>Maximum<br>Offering<br>Price Per<br>Unit(1) | Maximum<br>Aggregate<br>Offering<br>Price(1) | Fee<br>Rate(1) | Amount of<br>Registration<br>Fee(1) | Carry<br>Forward<br>Form<br>Type | Carry<br>Forward<br>File<br>Number | Carry<br>Forward<br>Initial<br>effective<br>date | Filing Fee<br>Previously<br>Paid In<br>Connection<br>with<br>Unsold<br>Securities<br>to be<br>Carried<br>Forward |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fees to Be<br>Paid | Debt | Debt Securities of Acuity Inc. | Rule 457(r) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fees to Be<br>Paid | Debt | Guarantee of Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. of Debt Securities of Acuity Inc. (2) | Rule 457(r) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fees to Be<br>Paid | Debt | Guarantee of Acuity Intelligent Spaces Inc. of Debt Securities of Acuity Inc. (2) | Rule 457(r) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fees to Be<br>Paid | Debt | Guarantee of QSC, LLC of Debt Securities of Acuity Inc. (2) | Rule 457(r) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fees to Be<br>Paid | Debt | Guarantee of ABL IP Holding LLC of Debt Securities of Acuity Inc. (2) | Rule 457(r) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fees<br>Previously<br>Paid |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry<br>Forward<br>Securities |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
|  | Total Offering Amounts | Total Offering Amounts | Total Offering Amounts | Total Offering Amounts |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
|  | Total Fees Previously Paid | Total Fees Previously Paid | Total Fees Previously Paid | Total Fees Previously Paid |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
|  | Total Fee Offsets | Total Fee Offsets | Total Fee Offsets | Total Fee Offsets |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
|  | Net Fee Due | Net Fee Due | Net Fee Due | Net Fee Due |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |

---

(1) An indeterminate aggregate initial offering price of the securities of each identified class is being registered as may from time to time be issued at indeterminate prices. In accordance with Rule 456(b) and 457(r) under the Securities Act, the registrant is deferring payment of all of the registration fees and will pay such fees on a pay-as-you-go-basis.

(2) Pursuant to Rule 457(n) under the Securities Act, no separate registration fee for the guarantee is payable.