State Legislative Keyperson Program
What is the State Legislative Keyperson Program?
The MACPA is looked upon as an expert resource by state legislators. It achieves this status through the expertise of its members. As new issues arise that involve the accounting profession, legislators look to CPAs to educate and advise them. You can become a resource for your legislators through the legislative Keyperson Program.
As a State Legislative Keyperson, What Will I Do?
State Legislative Keypersons are asked to commit to:
- Sending an initial letter to your legislators upon enrolling in the program. This will give you an opportunity to introduce yourself to the office holders, explain the program and offer your services as a knowledgeable professional. Sample letters will be provided.
- Attending at least one of the two MACPA Legislative Days held in the Spring and Fall of each year.
The other major role of a State Legislative Keyperson is to act as a resource for your legislators. It is very important to establish a two-way relationship where the public official looks to you as their contact on tax, accounting and business related issues.
Do I Qualify to be a State Legislative Keyperson?
The MACPA State Legislative Keyperson Program is designed for individuals who have an interest in Michigan politics, advocacy for the CPA profession, and developing a relationship with Michigan legislators.
Anyone can volunteer to become a State Legislative Keyperson. Generally, Keypersons fall into one of three categories:
- Individuals who have become acquainted with their legislators through meetings, fundraisers, and/or other events and are generally on a first-name basis.
- Individuals who have met and have had limited contact with their legislators and desire to develop and enhance these relationships.
- Individuals who have never met their legislators; however, wish to become involved in advocacy for the CPA profession and are willing to contact legislators on specific issues.
What is the Time Commitment of a State Legislative Keyperson?
As a State Legislative Keyperson, you can devote as much or as little time as your schedule permits. Being a Keyperson commits you to writing a letter or making a phone call two or three times a year, and attending at least one of two MACPA Legislative Days each year. This assists in maintaining and developing relationships, while also accomplishing our ultimate goal of effective advocacy for the CPA profession.
Most communication between you and your legislators will be facilitated through MACPA staff, requiring very little effort on your behalf. If an issue arises that warrants mobilization of the profession, Keypersons are contacted to communicate this position to their legislators. Issue briefings and sample communications always will be provided to assist in familiarizing yourself with the issue at hand.
Where Can I Learn More About the Program?
For more information or questions please contact the MACPA Government Relations Department at 248.267.3710 or e-mail legislation@michcpa.org. For specific staff member contacts please refer to our staff directory.
How Do I Volunteer?
Enter your information in the volunteer form and you will be contacted by an MACPA Government Relations staff member. Please allow pop-ups to access the volunteer form.
