Thanks to the support of so many members, the MACPA’s Political Action Committee, Legislative Advisory Group and government relations staff can boast several significant legislative achievements over the past few months. Of course, at the top of the list is the success of the yearlong CPA license mobility initiative, which cleared its final stage in the policy-making process with the Governor’s signature on June 11. The unanimous support of the State House and Senate was a testament to the open lines of communication with the State Legislature MACPA has nurtured over the years.

Not only has MACPA been successful in facilitating the passage of legislation benefiting the profession in 2008, but Association efforts have also proven successful in amending legislation harmful the profession. Case in point: House Bill 4887, sponsored earlier this year by State Rep. Fred Miller (D-Mount Clemens) originally proposed that all employers in the State of Michigan be prohibited from using a job applicant’s credit score as a factor in employment decisions. MACPA was able to secure an amendment to HB 4887 that exempts CPAs and public accounting firms from this proposed measure; another testament to the Association’s efforts in advocacy.

Campaign support is the cornerstone to such success. The MACPA, through its Political Action Committee, makes contributions to like-minded candidates who hold many of the same principles in helping to protect the integrity of the CPA profession.

Consider that three MACPA members are running for State House this year. Mary Treder-Lang, CPA of Grosse Pointe Farms, Tom McMillin, CPA of Rochester and J. Garza, CPA of Gibraltar have all declared for their districts’ Republican August primary. Needless to say, it is imperative that the Association provide significant financial support to these candidates. It has been many years since a CPA has held such an influential position within state government. Their expertise in taxation and finance not only brings benefit to MACPA members, but to all Michigan citizens. (Read brief profiles on these candidates in this issue of Leaders’ Edge.)

If you haven’t already done so this year, please consider making your annual tax-deductible MACPA PAC contribution this summer. Membership dues have already been sent, so it’s quick and easy. Simply send your contribution along with your annual dues payment. (You may also contribute online at www.michcpa.org/pac). Do your part and be a leader for the profession!

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