CPAs are essential players in the business world. They uphold financial integrity, ensure compliance and play a key role in advising clients and organizations on fiscal matters. Yet, you might not realize that one aspect of the profession that is essential is the impact CPAs can have through advocacy. When CPAs engage in the legislative and regulatory process, they don’t just serve their own interests—they help shape a fair and effective regulatory environment for all stakeholders in the economy. How? Consider the following:

Influencing Regulatory and Legislative Decisions

The financial landscape is shaped by rules, regulations and policies crafted at local, state and federal levels impact CPAs directly. By being involved, CPAs can influence these regulations—bringing their expertise and experience—and ensure that new laws are practical, achievable and serve the public interest. Think of it as CPAs serving as a bridge between policy and practice. 

Promoting the Value and Integrity of the CPA Profession

CPAs work in a highly regulated industry and must adhere to rigorous standards that protect clients and the public. However, if these standards are threatened by new policies, it could impact the perception of the profession and its ability to deliver trusted services. Through their involvement, CPAs showcase the vital role they play in society when it comes to contributing to transparent, ethical financial practices across all sectors.

Protecting the Interests of Clients and the Public

CPAs don’t just advocate for their profession—they also represent the interests of their clients, organizations and the public. Policies that impact financial reporting, tax law or business compliance directly affect companies and individuals. CPAs often have the most up-to-date understanding of the financial challenges facing businesses and individuals, making their insights especially valuable to policymakers.

Adapting to a Rapidly Changing Environment

The financial world is in a constant state of flux, driven by technological advances, shifts in the economy and evolving standards. CPAs are on the front lines of these changes, helping clients navigate new regulations, cybersecurity risks and sustainability reporting requirements. By participating in the creation of new standards, CPAs can guide the profession toward the future and advocate for policies that allow businesses to adopt new technologies without regulatory barriers.

Creating a Stronger Professional Community

When CPAs come together to advocate for the profession, they create a more unified and robust community. And this is one area where you can immediately jump in. You can learn more about our advocacy efforts and resources, including supporting CPA-PAC and grassroots activities, at calcpa.org/advocacy.

Then be sure to sign up for our Legislative Summit & CPA Day, which will be held Feb. 5 in Sacramento to connect with lawmakers, discuss issues and advocate for policies that benefit both the profession and the public. You can register today by heading over to calcpa.org and entering search term, “CPA Day at the Capitol. We’ll see you there!