Here’s a fun fact for you: Did you know that thousands of pieces of legislation are introduced in the Legislature each year? And while many of those pieces don’t directly touch the CPA profession, there are plenty that do—and that’s where our advocacy and public affairs team kicks in.

From proposals dealing with audit requirements for digital financial asset businesses to reintroduction of environmental, social and governance, and from wealth tax legislation to possible regulatory oversight of artificial intelligence programs and businesses that employ them, our team does the heavy lifting of poring over legislation with an eye toward protecting you and the profession.

But it doesn’t stop at just reviewing the legislation. We continually provide comments on legislation and work with stakeholders to educate them on the issues affecting you and your clients.

And what makes our efforts even stronger is the dedication of our members to join with us and amplify the voice of the profession. Each year, hundreds of members join together at the state Capitol to meet with legislators to discuss current issues facing the CPAs—and their clients and businesses—in California.

CPA Day, as we call it, is one of the most important annual events we have. And if you have participated in the past, thank you. Your voice and support go a long way to pushing the profession forward and establishing important relationships with members of the Legislature. There is something powerful about sitting face-to-face with someone and providing them with information and stories that bring the life the impact—or potential impact—of legislation. 

If you haven’t had a chance to see what CPA Day is all about, then consider this your personal invite and circle Wednesday, Jan. 17, on your calendar for our next trip to the Capitol. Never talked with a legislator before? That’s OK. We’ll provide you with all the information, talking points and direction you need to make your visits successful.

The more voices we have, the more diversity we have. The differing backgrounds, experiences and thoughts that our members bring are key to ensuring our community and profession thrive. So the more members we have participating, the more voices—the more perspectives—we’re able to bring to CPA Day.

The day also includes our Legislative Summit, which brings together CalCPA and leaders in the public policy space to discuss issues facing California and the profession; help us understand the top issues; provide information on the ins and outs of how to navigate the legislative world—and how you can make an impact.

Join us and lend your voice. You won’t be disappointed. More details will follow in the coming weeks, so keep an eye on your inbox and at calcpa.org, and we’ll see you in Sacramento!