As leaders of the Ohio FPA chapter, we have been closely monitoring a provision in the biennial budget proposed by Governor John Kasich that would apply a 5 percent sales tax to accounting, financial advising, and other consumer services that is likely to adversely affect FPA members.  We are working with other associations and allied organizations to determine how best to mobilize our members and resources to prevent any such tax that would be harmful to the services we provide to our clients.

While the Governor aims to lower certain taxes, the increased tax on services that many FPA members provide will harm small businesses and the consumers we serve.  More details on the tax and the proposed budget can be found here.

Over the next few weeks, we will continue to make you aware of this situation and offer ways that you can help defeat this measure.  We want to ensure that the concerns and voices of FPA members are heard on this matter, so please take a moment to engage as follows:  

1. Please contact Governor Kasich and urge him to not move forward with this tax.  We have attached draft language that you can use when reaching out to his office.  

2. Please contact your state senator and state representative to express the same, using the following draft language.  

3. Please email David Robertson, Director of Government Relations for the FPA Northeast Ohio chapter, if you have personal connections with the Governor, legislative leaders, or the media.  

Once you have contacted your elected officials, please drop David an email to let him know that you have voiced your concern.  This will help us better track the impact we are having and who we are reaching.  By adding your voice, we will have a more visible show of unity and strength as FPA members.  

Thank you in advance for your effort to further this important initiative.  If you should have any questions or need assistance with outreach, please do not hesitate to contact David or me.

Sincerely,

Ken Paull, CFP®, President
FPA Northeast Ohio Chapter