On behalf of its members, the MACPA monitors and analyzes proposed legislation to determine its potential effect the CPA profession. Sometimes proposed legislation – totally unrelated to the profession – could have adverse effects or unintended consequences for CPAs.

The following bills and resolutions of interest are tracked on the MACPA’s web site.

House Bill 4124, introduced at the beginning of 2005, proposes revisions to restrictions on persons to whom CPAs are liable for malpractice. These changes would include returning to a “reasonable forseeability” standard and create liabilities for supplying information that can be considered professional advice.

Senate Bill 632, having made its way through the Senate with amendments developed and championed by the MACPA, is now awaiting committee debate in the State House. The original bill language would have altered unlicensed activity provisions set forth by recent accountancy reform legislation signed into law. Along with the efforts of MACPA members, the Association was able to negotiate amending language to prevent these “unintended consequences” from being put to a full-Senate vote.

House Joint Resolution M, a measure to amend the State’s Constitution, would adversely affect the CPA profession, as well. Another example of “unintended consequences,” this resolution language would require that all intermediate and public school districts have their post audits of financial transactions and accounts conducted by the Michigan Auditor General, disallowing accounting firms that currently perform these engagements from continuing to provide
such services.

Additional legislation of interest to MACPA members can be viewed on the Association’s web site. Specific questions regarding MACPA advocacy efforts can be directed to the Government Relations Department at 248.267.3710 or legislation@michcpa.org.

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