Gail Sparks Pitts 2007-2008 MACPA Chair of the Board

The hottest issue for the profession is the movement toward a unified CPA license mobility system. As the effort gains traction across the country, I’m pleased to report we are very close to introducing legislation in Michigan. Easing restrictions on interstate practice will save us, our clients, and our companies time and money by allowing us to do our jobs more effectively and efficiently. Tune in to the MACPA for updates in the coming days.

While license mobility is garnering a lot of our energy, it’s not the only legislative or regulatory issue requiring attention. Read the Legislative Update in this Leaders’ Edge to learn about a proposed auditor rotation requirement for Area Agencies on Aging, legislation on business structure, evolving guidance on the MBT, and more.

Looking at the importance of these issues, I think we all appreciate the commitment and hard work carried out on our behalf by our Legislative Advisory Group, government relations staff, and the Board of Directors. It also points to the need to maintain our strong voice in Lansing through support of our Political Action Committee. (Read more about the PAC in this article.) In addition, relationship building continues at the national level, as our Legislative Advisory Group makes plans to visit lawmakers in Washington, D.C. in June.

I’m also thrilled to share the success of our recent High School Leaders Conferences. Held at Michigan State, Western Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Wayne State and Oakland universities, we attracted more than 600 students and teachers who appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the profession. Ninety-five percent of attendees indicated they will now consider a career in accounting. A Mumford High School student said, “This conference was very interesting and makes me focus more on what I want my career to be – accounting.” As a moderator and speaker at several of the events, this positive feedback is very rewarding.

It’s been a busy start to the year with legislative activity, taxes, and outreach to students – and certainly the coming months promise to be no different. The MACPA is gearing up with a full array of CPE offerings to help members stay abreast of the issues, the changes and the challenges we all face. Our task forces and staff do a great job looking at fresh topics, new speakers and innovative ways to present information to help members earn CPE affordably and efficiently.

Keeping our members at the top of their game is our priority. Your ideas and input are always welcome. I encourage you to contact me, other board members, or the MACPA staff to share your thoughts and suggestions.

 

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