Georgia CPAs lobby state officials about tax issues

More than 100 members of the Georgia Society of CPAs recently visited the state capitol building in Atlanta to press lawmakers about the issues of most importance to accountants.

The GSCPA holds an annual CPA Day when members visit the Gold Dome capitol in Atlanta. This year, it occurred on Jan. 25. The GSCPA is currently keeping tabs on bills and discussions about tax reform and the professional licensing boards, especially the Georgia State Board of Accountancy. After the passage in Washington, D.C., last December of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the GSCPA has assembled a group of members who are experts in various income tax facets to closely monitor any developments and provide input to lawmakers. The GSCPA is also opposed to a sales tax on services, although there's currently no push for one in the legislature.

“CPA Day makes a real connection between our members and their elected officials,” said GSCPA CEO Boyd Search in a statement. “This is a unique year now that federal tax reform has been signed into law. CPAs are exceptionally qualified to act as a resource and offer insights on the issues around reform that are facing the profession and those important to the business world.”

During the event, a number of state lawmakers who are also CPAs spoke to the GSCPA. Members of the Georgia CPA Caucus, including Rep. David Knight, Rep. John Carson, Rep. David Wilkerson and Sen. Michael Williams, provided an update on legislative issues to the GSCPA. Afterward, Laura Wheeler from Georgia State University’s Fiscal Research Center discussed state tax credits and exemptions.

The Georgia Society of CPAs visiting the state capitol on CPA Day 2018

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