As Maryland’s legislative session approaches, the Maryland Society of Accounting and Tax Professionals recently hosted its annual Legislative Breakfast, creating space for meaningful conversation between tax and accounting professionals and state policymakers.

The breakfast brought together practitioners from across the state alongside Maryland Delegates and Senators, as well as leadership from the Comptroller of Maryland. The gathering provided an opportunity for open dialogue on the real-world impact of tax policy, administrative challenges, and the importance of thoughtful, practical legislation.

More than just an event, the Legislative Breakfast serves as a reminder that effective policy is built through education, collaboration, and direct engagement with those who work with Maryland’s tax system every day.

Why the Legislative Breakfast Matters

Tax and accounting professionals are often the first to see how legislation and administrative decisions affect small businesses, families, and communities. The Legislative Breakfast creates a nonpartisan space where those frontline perspectives can be shared directly with lawmakers and agency leadership.

These conversations help:

• Provide legislators and agency leaders with real-world insight into tax administration and compliance challenges

• Elevate practitioner perspectives on how policy decisions affect taxpayers and small businesses

• Build relationships that support ongoing dialogue throughout the legislative session

• Reinforce the role of trusted professionals in protecting taxpayers and strengthening Maryland’s tax system

A Focus on Education and Collaboration

The tone of the morning was collaborative and solutions-focused. Discussions emphasized system improvements, clearer communication, and the importance of considering both administrative feasibility and taxpayer impact when shaping policy. By convening practitioners, legislators, and the Comptroller’s leadership in the same room, MSATP continues to serve as a bridge between the profession and those responsible for administering and overseeing Maryland’s tax laws.

Supporting the Work Ahead

Events like the Legislative Breakfast are just one part of how the profession stays engaged throughout the legislative session. Ongoing education, access, and relationship-building require sustained effort.

Members who wish to further support this work may consider contributing to the Maryland Society of Accounting and Tax Professionals’ Political Action Committee (MSATP PAC). The MSATP PAC supports nonpartisan engagement with policymakers and ensures that the voice of ethical, practicing professionals continues to be heard in Annapolis.

Participation in the MSATP PAC is entirely voluntary and separate from MSATP membership dues. Contributions are not tax-deductible and are used in accordance with Maryland campaign finance laws.

As the session gets underway, MSATP remains committed to staying engaged, informed, and present on behalf of the profession. Thank you to everyone who attended the Legislative Breakfast and contributed to a productive and meaningful conversation.

Together, we continue to strengthen our professional community and the systems that serve Maryland taxpayers.