Senator Quinton Ross (D -Montgomery), Senator Jabo Waggoner (R-Jefferson), Representative Tammy Irons (D-Lauderdale), Representative Cam Ward (R-Shelby) and a bipartisan coalition of Alabama legislators announced the introduction of the Alabama Taxpayer Protection and Assistance Act, which will provide for testing and licensing of commercial tax preparers in the state to help ensure they are competent and ethical. Over the last six months, University of Alabama students working with the University of Alabama’s Center for Ethics & Social Responsibility conducted research and helped draft the needed reforms. In addition, college students from more than ten campuses statewide have worked tirelessly to raise awareness and gain support from the Legislature and Governor.

For recent press coverage, please see the following links:

Birmingham News Editorial: Alabama Tax Preparers Need to be Trained, Regulated (Jan 31)

Huntsville Times: Hall to Push Rules for Tax Preparers (Jan 30)

WSFA Montgomery: Alabama Taxpayer Protection and Assistance Act Announced (Jan 30)

Tuscaloosa News: Bill Would Test, Regulate Tax Preparers (Jan 29)

Birmingham News: Lawmakers Say Tax Services Will Face Regulation from Proposed Bill (Jan 30)

Op-Ed by Stephen Foster Black
Birmingham News: Students Spur Needed Reforms (Feb 1)
Huntsville Times: Alabama Needs a Law to Regulate Tax Preparers (Feb 1)

Huntsville Times Editorial: More Reliable Sources (Jan. 18)

Mobile Press-Register: Proposed Legislation Would Require Licenses for Tax Preparers (Jan. 16)

Florence TimesDaily: Legislation Focuses on Training for Tax Preparers (Jan. 19)

Decatur Daily: Tax Help Organization Founder Wants Oversight Bill (Jan. 11)