INCPAS Chair Erland Porter, CPA, shares his insights on the importance of advocacy in the CPA profession

What will the Society focus on and monitor during this legislative session?

The Society is focused on numerous, evolving issues. The most pressing items relate to updating rules and legislation in response to the ongoing pandemic. This touches every portion of the profession, including: the ability for candidates to sit for the CPA Exam, the definition of “essential services,” tax due dates, and businesses’ liability exposure for operating under local and federal guidance. We are also addressing professional services licensure questions, the impact of surrounding jurisdictions legalization of marijuana, and many other issues.

Why do you give to the Indiana CPA-Political Action Committee?

Giving to the PAC provides a direct connection to our legislators and allows me to positively impact the profession in our state. The PAC works to support our overarching professional agenda regardless of the political composition of the legislature at any one time. We are not all able to run for office or attend hearings in person, but contributing to the PAC makes sure our collective voices continue to be heard.

How does INCPAS protect the CPA license?

INCPAS serves as the bridge between the professionals serving our community every day and the key stakeholders we interact with. Whether it is promoting the profession to prospective students, helping inform legislators on critical issues, or marketing our services to the broader community; INCPAS is heavily involved in promoting licensed professionals. Both the direct and indirect focus on advocating for CPAs helps protect our license.