CPA
May 2018
Newsletter from the Iowa Society of CPAs, your primary source for profession-related information
Advocacy in action: 2018 highlights
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hen we reflect on state advocacy this year and what has been accomplished for our members, one word comes to mind: relationships. The mutually beneficial relationships we establish and maintain with members and people across multiple legislative and regulatory organizations are essential to quality results when it comes to enhancing, guiding and protecting the profession. How did these relationships and advocacy work together this session? ISCPA monitored more than 150 bills for issues affecting Iowa CPAs. We communicated with legislative and regulatory groups and represented the voice of the profession and the interests of members. Events like Iowa CPA Day at the Capitol generated dialogue and a unified voice for the profession. Grassroots work at meetings of ISCPA’s Taxation and Legislation Committees made a huge difference in our ability to communicate issues on policy affecting work you do. Our lobbyists delivered the interests of ISCPA and the profession to legislators while serving as a reliable resource between policymakers and the Society. Members mobilized to actively support the Society’s positions and rally to directly communicate with policymakers when called upon. Thank you to our members and partners for contributing to these 2018 advocacy highlights: Iowa Accountancy Examining Board (IAEB) • Advocated for continued practice of attesting to the number of CPE hours taken at renewal time versus proposal to key and upload all CPE certificates to the new IAEB licensing system
for June 2018 renewal. Thank you to members Kurt Konek and Patti Bell and ISCPA Education Director Kathy Nicholson for advocating on members’ behalf. • Made recommendation to Gov. Reynolds for IAEB board members. Iowa tax reform bills Using the principles of equity and fairness, clarity, timely legislative response, certainty, effective tax administration, information security, simplicity, economic growth and efficiency, transparency and visibility, maximized compliance, accountability to taxpayers and appropriate government revenues: • E xpressed concern over broad definition of information services as it relates to sales tax. • Expressed concern over sales tax expansion which could include CPA research tools. • Encouraged permanent federal tax conformity. • Had member testimonial at public hearing on HSB 671, originally the governor’s tax reform bill. • Provided positive feedback on proposal to repeal alternative minimum tax. Additional areas • Supported a bill concerning the auditor of state collection of fees. • Worked in opposition of tax return preparer oversight, which failed the funnel. Special thanks to members Mark Wackerbarth, Jan Towne and Patti Bell for advocating on members’ behalf. • Advocated for proper CPA services definition in many bills.
ISCPA keys to advocacy 1. Identify essential stakeholders – members and organizations. 2. Regularly communicate so both sides understand issues from the other’s perspective.
3. Make time for communication even if there isn’t an issue to discuss. 4. Solve problems for others whenever possible.
5. Make recommendations to organizations that may be deep into details of a challenge. 6. Look for solutions. Don’t always just point out issues.
Iowa Society of CPAs...Advancing the professional success of our members