California CPA November 2024 | Page 22

CapitolBeat
• SB 1501 : Aimed to give businesses more flexibility on the June 15 PTET payment deadline . Even though they didn ’ t pass ,
CalCPA is committed to finding practical solutions that make the PTET easier for businesses to navigate . After the November election , when we have a better sense of Congress ’ s makeup and priorities , we ’ ll be able to refine our approach to advancing these efforts next year .
Aligning with the Federal Tax Code CalCPA has begun laying the groundwork to update California ’ s tax code in 2025 , aiming to align it with federal tax changes that have happened since the last conformity project in 2015 . This alignment will help simplify tax compliance for both taxpayers and preparers .
Although this will be a complex process , initial discussions and drafts in
2024 have set the stage for a proposal next year .
Emerging Assurance Areas AI : With artificial intelligence rapidly evolving , CalCPA monitored SB 1047 , which proposed new AI regulations , including third-party assurance , to ensure developers of AI systems were , in fact , complying with strict new regulations . Though it was vetoed , CalCPA supports finding ways to protect consumers without holding back innovation in AI technology .
Climate regs : With the passage of SB 253 and SB 261 in 2023 , California is advancing climate policy by requiring companies to report their greenhouse gas emissions and obtain third-party verification to ensure accuracy . As these requirements roll out , CalCPA is actively working with regulators and stakeholders to bring the profession ’ s perspective into the process . Profession involvement will be key to establishing a reliable reporting and assurance system that is workable for businesses and practitioners and effectively supports California ’ s environmental goals .
Looking Forward : CalCPA Legislative Summit & Advocacy Day CalCPA Legislative Summit & Advocacy Day will be held Feb . 5 in Sacramento . CPAs are invited to connect with lawmakers , discuss important issues and advocate for policies that benefit both the profession and the public . It ’ s a valuable opportunity to be heard and make a difference . Keep an eye out for how you can register for this event and help advance CalCPA ’ s advocacy work for another successful year .
Jason Fox is CalCPA ’ s vice president of advocacy and public affairs . You can reach him at jason . fox @ calcpa . org .