The accounting profession stands at a crossroads. Faced with a shortage of qualified professionals, rapidly evolving workforce demands, technological change, and ongoing regulatory uncertainty, the need for strong advocacy has never been more urgent. The good news is that with strategic engagement with legislators and regulators, along with thoughtful relationship-building, we have the power to shape a more accessible, competitive, and sustainable future for our profession.

This year, COCPA's advocacy efforts are anchored in our commitment to modernizing CPA licensure in Colorado. The proposed legislation creating new pathways to licensure offers a thoughtful solution to workforce shortages while maintaining the rigorous standards our profession is known for.

But, advocacy is not a spectator sport. It requires active participation from all of us. That is why events like PAC the House on January 27, 2026, matter. When we gather at the State Capitol, we demonstrate the strength of our professional community and invest in the CPA-PAC’s capacity to support legislators from both major parties who champion policies that benefit the accounting profession.

Experiencing the legislative process firsthand helps us understand how laws are made and how our collective voice can influence outcomes. Every conversation with a legislator, every contribution to the CPA-PAC, and every moment spent advocating reinforces that accounting and finance professionals have a seat at the table when decisions are being made.

The time to act is now. COCPA’s three-dimensional approach to advocacy—legislative support, political action through the CPA-PAC and CPA 1904 Small Donor Committee, and assistance with regulatory agencies—ensures that your voice is heard at every level. Whether you are navigating a challenge with the Colorado Department of Revenue, seeking guidance from the State Board of Accountancy, or hoping to influence pending legislation, COCPA is ready to amplify your concerns and advocate on your behalf. Together, we can expand access to the profession, maintain excellence in standards, and keep Colorado competitive. By engaging in advocacy today, we are not only solving immediate challenges but paving the way for future generations of CPAs who will continue serving as trusted partners to Colorado’s economy.