Looking over the horizon.

AuthorMoeller, Jay J.
PositionMessage FROM THE CHAIR

Wouldn't it be great to see into the future? Most of us would like to look over the horizon and know with certainty what lies ahead, especially in today's economically troubling times. While I may not know what is coming, I take comfort in knowing that my membership in The Ohio Society of CPAs gives me ready access to my peers, vital information and representation with the Ohio General Assembly, Congress and regulators to help me handle whatever the future may hold.

As we begin a new year, it's natural to look ahead and make plans, admittedly without the ability to perfectly predict the future. What will 2009 hold? Several factors could have serious impact on the accounting profession and on us as CPAs. Rest assured knowing that The Ohio Society has the leading issues on the radar and is acting to defend our professional interests.

PROTECTING THE VIABILITY OF BUSINESS IN OHIO

"Change" was one of the buzz words of this past election cycle. As a profession, CPAs need to make sure the coming changes make economic sense. We need to protect Ohio business and continue to create an environment that supports business growth. As trusted business advisers, CPAs are uniquely positioned to offer insight into proposed legislation and explain how it will impact Ohio business and CPAs. But that insight falls on deaf ears if we don't cultivate relationships with our legislators. To make certain that our voices are heard, The Ohio Society actively works with legislators and earns their respect by providing insights, resources and access to member experts on an ongoing basis across a wide range of issues.

Tax issues are always under the watchful eye of Ohio Society staff and the members of our Tax Legislation Policy Committee. The commercial activity tax (CAT) is a special area of concern. Our goal is to keep the CAT rate low and broad based. Any special carve outs, exemptions or earmarks place a disproportionate burden on other businesses and hinder economic development.

Ohio's sales tax and taxes on higher levels of income are other areas of concern for 2009, especially as Ohio faces an astonishing budget deficit. Gov. Ted Strickland, House Speaker Armond Budish (D-Beachwold) and Senate President Bill Harris (R-Ashland)...

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