Why the SEC climate rule deserves CPAs’ attention

Journal of Accountancy Podcast

Ami Beers, CPA, CGMA, senior director–Assurance & Advisory Innovation for AICPA & CIMA, joins the JofA podcast for this episode to guide CPAs on how to approach the new SEC rule on climate-related disclosures.

The SEC adopted the rule March 6. But, about a month later, it put a stay on the rule’s implementation, in response to multiple legal challenges to the rule. Some argued that the SEC overstepped its authority, and others said the SEC didn’t do enough.

Either way, it’s likely the rule will affect corporate reporting going forward, despite the lack of clarity now. Beers explains that and more, underscoring the importance of not waiting to understand the rule.

Resources

n May 23 webinar mentioned by Beers

n AICPA and Center for Audit Quality summary document

n JofA March 6 article on rule adoption

n JofA March 14 need-to-know summary

What you’ll learn from this episode:

· Ami Beers’ rundown of the recent timeline of sustainability reporting and the SEC’s adoption of its rule on climate-related disclosures.

· What the data, in multiple surveys from the AICPA and the International Federation of Accountants, shows about companies’ reporting on climate information.

· What’s next regarding the legal challenges affecting the rule.

· Why Beers said “there’s a lot to unpack” regarding the rule.

· Why, despite legal hurdles, Beers believes the rule should remain on CPAs’ radar.

· The importance of legislation in the European Union and California on climate-related reporting.