Governor Addresses Florida CPAs; Challenges Accounting Profession to Promote Florida’s Business-Friendly Environment

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Gov. Rick Scott, in his keynote address to attendees of the Mega CPE Conference this morning, emphasized the importance of streamlining regulations, permitting and other requirements in Florida’s quest to become known as the most business-friendly state in the nation. “Since I’ve been in office, I’ve tried to make this the No. 1 place to do business,” said Scott. The education conference was held by the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA). Florida CPAs are required to earn 80 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) every two years to maintain their license. Speaking from Tampa, Scott’s address was simulcast to the Mega CPE Conference sister-city, Orlando.

Among Scott’s recent regulation simplification measures was signing into law HB 769, which streamlines licensing requirements for Florida CPAs. The FICPA, a statewide, professional association, has been representing Florida CPAs for more than 100 years.

The bill, sponsored by state Rep. Clay Ford, R-Gulf Breeze, and supported by the Florida Board of Accountancy (BOA) and the FICPA, creates an amnesty program for accountants who wish to reactivate their CPA license, among other provisions. It also provides for a report to the Senate President and House Speaker regarding potential streamlining and cost savings for BOA functions. Gov. Scott signed the legislation into law on April 27, 2012.

In introducing the Governor to the audience, FICPA President/CEO Deborah Curry praised Scott for the support and leadership he has given to the accounting profession. “The Governor understands the importance of eliminating hurdles and building a business climate that facilitates Florida’s growth,” said Curry. “Your bill [HB 769] makes it easier for Florida CPAs to get back to work.”

In his address, Scott discussed streamlining as one of his highest priorities. “My job is to create an environment where businesses get everybody back to work,” Gov. Scott said. “Streamlining the permitting processes; cutting red tape; and reducing government overhead that consumers don’t want to pay for makes Florida easy to do business with. This, combined with private-sector individuals adding jobs, here and there – all over Florida – is how we are getting our state back to work.”

For more information about Florida CPAs and the CPA profession, go to old.ficpa.org.

Founded in 1905, the FICPA is a Tallahassee-based, statewide, professional association representing member-CPAs throughout Florida. With a membership of more than 18,500, the Institute's mission is to serve the diverse needs of its members; enhance their competency and professionalism; support professional standards; promote the value of CPAs; and advocate on behalf of the profession. For complete information about the FICPA, visit old.ficpa.org.

Contact:
Justin Thames
850-528-2209