The Florida Institute of CPAs held its second annual Virtual Advocacy Day on Thursday, with members meeting online with state lawmakers to make the case for the CPA profession in the Sunshine State.
The event included a legislative briefing from FICPA governmental affairs director Justin Thames and Liberty Partners of Tallahassee’s Jennifer Green. An interactive CPA lawmaker panel included Rep. Mike Caruso, Sen. Joe Gruters and Rep. Cyndi Stevenson. There was also a discussion of the CPA profession from House Majority Leader Mike Grant, Sen. Travis Hutson, Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis, House Ways and Means Committee chair Bobby Payne, and Senate Finance and Tax Committee chair Ana Maria Rodriguez. Participants also heard a Florida economic update from Dr. Jerry Parrish.
“I’m thrilled to be with you all as we kick off our advocacy days and raise awareness about the CPA profession among our state lawmakers,” FICPA president and CEO Shelly Weir said in her opening remarks. “With your continued support, we will strengthen our position among policymakers, the public and the profession nationally.”
Advocating on CPAs’ behalf is a big part of FICPA’s mission, and member involvement helps ensure CPAs' voices are heard in the political process.
“The FICPA is the voice of Florida CPAs in our state’s Capitol,” FICPA chair Kristin Bivona said in a statement. “Our Virtual Advocacy Day agenda featured numerous policymakers who impact our profession every day. We were honored to have the opportunity to meet with them about issues relevant to the CPA profession in Florida.”
Next Wednesday, the FICPA will host its first full membership fly-in advocacy event — Hike the Hill — in Tallahassee.
“Whether we connect virtually or in person, effectively communicating with lawmakers is paramount to our success in Florida’s governmental process,” said Thames in a statement.
