Halsey Beshears, Secretary Ron DeSantis, Governor€¦ · 10-K that AF Ocean filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("Commission") on April 14, 2016. c. In its Form 10-K,

Division of Certified Public Accounting Roger Scarborough, Director 240 NW 76th Drive, Suite A Gainesville, FL 32607-6655

Phone: 850.487.1395 • Fax: 352.333.2508 Halsey Beshears, Secretary

Ron DeSantis, Governor

LICENSE EFFICIENTLY. REGULATE FAIRLY. WWW.MYFLORIDALICENSE.COM

July 10, 2020 Board of Accountancy

Department of Business and Professional Regulations To join: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/588339829

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Notice

Friday July 10, 2020 9:00 a.m. Call to Order Jesus Socorro

Roll Call Roger Scarborough Establishment of Quorum Roger Scarborough

1. Approve minutes May 11, 2020 a. May 15, 2020 b. May 29, 2020 c.

2. OGC Final Action

Informal Hearing 2018-029249 Ares, Milton A. (MR/DS/DD) a.

Voluntary Relinquishment

2019-055165 Deckard, Cathy R. b. 2019-005444 Petford, Vaughn c. 2019-004789 Knibloe, William G II (TK) d. 2019-003461 Danese, Daniel F. (SP/DD) e.

2019-013859 Oliver, Nadia Eileen (DD) f. 2018-032612 Renaud, Richard M (MM/DD) g.

Settlement Stipulation

2018-01853 Baulier, Margaret Holly (DS/DD) h. 2018-017858 Ferradas, Ivonne (MR/DD) i. 2018-041412 Freeman, Paul H. (DS/DD) j. 2018-030649 Iraola, Manuel A. (SP/DD) k.

2019-010889 Garrido, Christina M. (SP/DD) l.

Respondent’s Motion for Reconsideration 2018-043006 Farooq, Frasat (DS/DD) m.

Entry of Final Order

2019-018478 Viera, Gustavo Adolfo (DS/DD) n. 2018-045038 Howell, Patrict Arien (DS/DD) o.

Waiver

2018-025900 Brown, Dean Anthony (DS/JS) p.

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3. Respondent’s Motion to Lift Practice Restriction Hufford, Wesley a. Stevenson, Raydell b.

4. Petition for Variance or Waiver

Fernandez, Orlando VW 2020-084 a.

5. Exams – Considerations Abughalia, Bahaa a. Disanto, Domina b. Khan, Christina c. Linero, Elay d. Moussadda, Abdallah e.

Parker, Bryant f. Sanchez, Alex g. Walkushi, Joshua h.

6. Endorsement – Considerations

Calamaro, Deborah a. Hawbaker, Thomas b. McGrath, Clinton c. Robinson, Daniel d. St. Martin, Christine e.

7. Maintenance & Reactivation – Null & Void

Noble, Linda a. Parker, Cueme b. Sanders, Brian c.

8. Maintenance & Reactivation – Voluntary Relinquishment

Bensen, Diane E a. Calvin, Dale Lee b. Huddleston, Kimberly Beth c. Sunera CPAs and Associates, LLP d. Valentine, Christopher L e.

9. Firms Considerations

Baker Tilley Virchow Krause, LLP a.

10. Reports Prosecuting Attorney Report- Chief Attorney; Ms. Miller a.

11. Committee Discussion

Education Minutes – December 9, 2019 a. Budget Minutes – February 5, 2020 b. Rules Minutes – January 22, 2020 c. Education Advisory Committee – June 15, 2020 d.

12. Rules

July 2020 Rules Report a. 2020-21 Annual Regulatory Plan b. Rule 61H1-27.002 (previously tolled to clarify meaning of USA laws) c.

HB 1193 – Drafted language for a new rule recommendation - 61H1-29.001 and will propose d.repeal of 61H1-29.003

Null and Void Rule Revision e.

13. Administration Remarks from Executive Director a. Update from Board Member serving on NASBA Committees b.

14. Florida Institute of Certified Public Accounting

15. NASBA

16. Public Comments

17. Old Business

18. Other Business

19. Future Meetings

August 27th (Thursday) PC Biltmore August 28th (Friday) Board 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables, FL October 22nd (Thursday) PC Four Points Sheraton, Tampa October 23rd (Friday) Board 4400 West Cypress Street, Tampa, FL

December 10th (Thursday) PC Hilton, Palm Beach Airport December 11th (Friday) – Board 150 Australian Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL

20. Adjourn

Board of Accountancy Board of Accountancy

May 11, 2020 3:30 p.m.

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Audio PIN: Shown after joining the meeting. Meeting Minutes Monday, May 11, 2020 3:30 p.m. Call to Order Jesus Socorro Establishment of Quorum Roger Scarborough The meeting was called to order by Jesus Socorro at 3:33 p.m. Board Members: Dave Dennis, Martin Fennema, Tracy Keegan, Michelle Maingot, Steve

Platau, Mindy Rankin, David Skup and Jesus Socorro Staff: Rachelle Munson, Assistant Attorney General & Board Counsel, Brande

Miller; Chief Attorney, Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Joseph Klein, Assistant General Counsel; Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Roger Scarborough, Division Director, Ashley Bordeaux and June Carroll; Board staff.

Public: Justin Thames; FICPA and Jennifer Green; Liberty Partners of

Tallahassee, LLC Agenda Items:

1. Gotomeeting Training Mr. Scarborough reviewed the features for the Gotomeeting.

2. Virtual Meeting Protocol Mr. Scarborough and Mr. Socorro discussed the meeting protocol that will be used for the May 15, 2020 Board meeting.

3. Discussion of Null and Void Pathway There was discussion as to what the pathway should be for those whose licenses have gone null and void due to a hardship. Members and staff discussed the possible need for a rule or statute change. Members were polled, while some are in favor of changes, others were not. The consensus was that this is something that will need to be discussed further.


4. NASBA NTS Credit Extension Motion was made by Ms. Keegan, seconded by Ms. Maingot, to approve extending all NTS Extensions with expiration between April 1 through December 30, 2020, as well as extending credit extension from April 1, through December 31, 2020. Upon vote, the motion passed with Dr. Fennema voting no.

5. Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 5:09 p.m. Jesus Socorro, Chair





May 15, 2020 Board of Accountancy

Department of Business and Professional Regulation GoToMeeting

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Friday, May 15, 2020 The meeting was called to order at 9:16 a.m. Roll call of Attendees was called by Roger Scarborough, Director and reflected the following persons present:

Board Members Staff David Dennis Excused Absence Roger Scarborough Present M.G. Fennema Present Ashley Bordeaux Present Tracy Keegan Present June Carroll Present Mindy Rankin Present Angela Francis Present Michelle Maingot Present Karan Lee Present Steve Platau Present Danielle Collins Present David Skup Present Jesus Socorro Present Rachelle Munson, Senior Assistant Attorney General and Board Counsel; Brande Miller, Chief Attorney, Department of Business and Professional Regulation; Joseph Klein, Assistant General Counsel, Department of Business and Professional Regulation. The court reporter was Debbie Holloway.

1. Discuss Gotomeeting Features Mr. Scarborough introduced the Gotomeeting features.

2. Etiquette for Meeting

Mr. Scarborough discussed etiquette for meeting.

3. Approve minutes

January 31, 2020 Motion was made by Dr. Fennema, seconded by Ms. Keegan, to approve minutes. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

4. OGC Final Action

2019-055165 Deckard, Cathy R. a.

This was continued

2019-005444 Petford, Vaughn b.



tel:+15713173117,,588339829

This was continued.

2019-013859 Oliver, Nadia Eileen c. This was continued

2018-063133 Alvarez, Andrew d. Mr. Alvarez was present. Mr. Dennis and Ms. Maingot were recused. Ms. Miller presented the case. Motion was made by Dr. Fennema, seconded by Ms. Keegan, to accept the Stipulation. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

2019-004360 Hildebrand, Eric Thomas e. Mr. Hildebrand was present. Mr. Dennis was recused. Ms. Miller presented the case. Motion was made by Ms. Keegan, seconded by Dr. Fennema, to accept the Stipulation. Upon vote, the motion passed with Mr. Skup voting no.

2019-003222 Marconi, Robert M. f. Mr. Marconi was present. Mr. Dennis and Ms. Rankin were recused. Ms. Miller presented the case. Motion was made by Ms. Keegan, seconded by Dr. Fennema, to accept the Stipulation. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

2018-040294 Perez, Noemi g. Ms. Perez was present. Mr. Dennis and Ms. Rankin were recused. Ms. Miller presented the case. Motion was made by Dr. Fennema, seconded by Ms. Keegan, to accept the Stipulation. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

2018-032635 Smith, Frederick W. h.

Mr. Smith was not present, attorney Mr. Gusrae was present. Mr. Dennis and Mr. Skup were recused. Ms. Miller presented the case. Motion was made by Ms. Keegan, seconded by Ms. Rankin, to accept the Stipulation. Upon vote, the motion failed with Dr. Fennema, Mr. Platau and Ms. Maingot voting no. Counter offer was made by Dr. Fennema, seconded by Mr. Platau to impose all stipulation with the exception of a fine of Two Thousand ($2,000.00). Upon vote, the motion passed with Ms. Keegan, Ms. Rankin and Mr. Socorro voting no. Mr. Gusrae will present the counter offer to Mr. Smith. .

2018-017858 Ferradas, Ivonne i. This was continued.

2018-041412 Freeman, Paul H. j. This was continued.

2019-016982 Hanke, Beate k. Ms. Hanke was present. Mr. Dennis was recused. Mr. Klein presented this case. Motion was made by Ms. Rankin, seconded by Mr. Platau, to accept the Stipulation. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

2019-017032 Langhauser, Mary Margaret l. Ms. Langhauser was present. Mr. Dennis was recused. Mr. Klein presented this case. Motion was made by Mr. Socorro, seconded by Ms. Keegan, to accept the Stipulation. Upon vote, the motion passed failed with Dr. Fennema, Mr. Skup, Ms. Ranking, Mr. Platau and Mr. Maingot voting no. Counter offer was made by Dr. Fennema, seconded by Mr. Platau to impose all stipulation with the exception of a fine of Two Thousand ($2,000.00). Upon vote, the motion passed with Mr. Socorro and Ms. Keegan voting no. Ms. Langhauser accepted the amended Stipulation.

2019-012010 Utset, Eduardo Eugenio m. Mr. Utset was not present; his attorney Mr. Soreide was present. Mr. Dennis and Ms. Rankin were recused. Mr. Klein presented this case.

Motion was made by Dr. Fennema, seconded by Ms. Keegan, to accept the Stipulation. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

5. Petition for Variance or Waiver

Connell, Cory a.

Mr. Connell was present Motion was made by Mr. Platau, seconded by Mr. Socorro , to approve Petition for Variance or Waiver of Rule 61H1-28.0052 (1)(b) with stipulation that he will submit official transcripts of completion of educational requirements. Upon vote, the motion passed with Dr. Fennema and Mr. Skup voting no.

Fulmer, Nicholas b. Mr. Fulmer was present, along with his character witness Mr. Riggs. Mr. Skup stated he has conducted business with CRI whom Mr. Riggs is a partner of however; he could remain fair and impartial. Motion was made by Ms. Maingot, seconded by Mr. Socorro, to approve Petition for Variance or Waiver of Rule 61H1-28.0052 (1) (b). Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

Lopez, Jorge c. Mr. Lopez was present Motion was made by Ms. Rankin, seconded by Mr. Socorro, to approve Petition for Variance or Waiver of Rule 61H1-28.0052 (1) (b). Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

McElroy, Michael d. Mr. McElroy was present Motion was made by Ms. Keegan, seconded by Mr. Socorro, to approve Petition for Variance or Waiver of Rule 61H1-28.0052 (1) (b). Upon vote, the motion passed with Mr. Platau and Mr. Skup voting no.

Papa, Haseena Jeehan e. Ms. Papa was present. Motion was made by Ms. Keegan, seconded by Mr. Socorro, to approve Petition for Variance or Waiver of Rule 61H1-28.0052 (1) (b). Upon vote, the motions failed with Mr. Skup, Ms. Maingot, Ms. Rankin and Mr. Platau voting no. Approval of Petition for Variance or Waiver did not pass, and was denied due to votes.

Rupani, Heena f. Ms. Rupani was present Ms. Rupani withdrew the Petition for Variance or Waiver of Rule 61H1.27.002 (2) (a).

Salvador-Barreto, Maritza g.

Ms. Salvador-Barreto was present. Motion was made by Mr. Socorro, seconded by Ms. Keegan, to approve Petition for Variance or Waiver of Rule 61H1-28.0052 (1) (b). Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

Willard, Barbara h. Ms. Willard was present. Motion was made by Ms. Rankin, seconded by Ms. Keegan, to approve Petition for Variance or Waiver of Rule 61H1-33.006 (2) and 61H1-31.006. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

6. Reconsideration

Ben-Zur, Hagai a. Mr. Ben-Zur was present Motion was made by Ms. Rankin, seconded by Mr. Platau, to deny reconsideration request. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

7. Declaratory Statement

Marseglia, Jonathan a. This was continued

8. Exams – Considerations

Alekson, Robert Jr. a. Mr. Alekson was present Motion was made by Ms. Rankin, seconded by Ms. Keegan, to approve for conviction only. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

Apozzo, Nicholas b. Mr. Apozzo was present Motion was made by Ms. Keegan, seconded by Mr. Platau, to approve for conviction only. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

Barwick, Tyler c. Mr. Barwick was present Motion was made by Mr. Socorro, seconded by Ms. Keegan, to approve for conviction only. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

Bethune, Christina d.

Ms. Bethune was present Motion was made by Mr. Platau, seconded by Mr. Socorro, to approve for conviction only. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

Duncan, Gareth e. Mr. Duncan was present Motion was made by Ms. Keegan, seconded by Mr. Socorro, to approve for conviction only. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

Jackson, Shelley f. Ms. Jackson was present. Motion was made by Mr. Skup, seconded by Mr. Platau, to approve for conviction only. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

Johnson, Christopher g. Mr. Johnson was present. Motion was made by Mr. Platau, seconded by Mr. Socorro, to approve for conviction only. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

Jordan, Terrell Jr. h. Mr. Jordan was present. Motion was made by Ms. Keegan, seconded by Ms. Rankin, to approve for conviction only. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

Parker, Bryant i. This was continued.

Robinson, Lee j. Mr. Lee was present Motion was made by Ms. Keegan., seconded by Mr. Skup, to approve for conviction only. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

Walkushi, Joshua k. This was continued.

9. Exams- Requirements not Met

Zayas, Robert a.

Mr. Zayas was present

Motion was made by Mr. Socorro, seconded by Mr. Platau, to continue, to allow board staff to re-evaluate under new rule, if staff deems hours are complete, will not need to come back before them. . Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

10. Original Licensure – Considerations

Goldman, Jeremy a.

Mr. Goldman was present.

Motion was made by Ms. Keegan, seconded by Mr. Platau, to approve for conviction only. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

11. Endorsement – Considerations

Calamaro, Deborah a. This was continued.

Hawbaker, Thomas b. This was continued.

Irving, Scott R. c. Mr. Irving was present. Motion was made by Ms. Rankin, seconded by Ms. Keegan, to approve for answering yes to question number four on application only. Upon vote, the motion passed with Mr. Platau voting no.

Martin, Wayne d. Mr. Martin was present. Motion was made by Ms. Keegan, seconded by Mr. Platau, to approve for convictions only. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

Trautmann, Dawn e. Ms. Trautmann was present Motion was made by Ms. Rankin, seconded by Ms. Keegan, to approve for answering yes to question number four on application only. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

12. Endorsement – Military Staff Approvals Turcotte, Joanna Lee a.

This was continued

13. Maintenance & Reactivation – Null & Void Bollinger, Anne a.

Ms. Bollinger was present and agreed to be continued.

Bozelle, David b. Mr. Bozelle was present and agreed to be continued.

Bryan, Spencer c. Mr. Bryan was present and agreed to be continued.

Carreras, Eladio d. Mr. Carreras was not present, to be continued.

Granberry, Kenneth e. Mr. Granberry was not present, to be continued

Harrison, Theodore f. Mr. Harrison was not present, to be continued.

Heider, Jennifer g. Ms. Heider was present and agreed to be continued.

Jansta, Stanislav h. Mr. Jansta was present and agreed to be continued.

Krogol, Brian Patrick i. Mr. Krogol was present and agreed to be continued.

Lieberman, Arthur j. Mr. Lieberman was present and agreed to be continued.

Marchitti, Pamela k. Ms. Marchitti was present and agreed to continue.

Mejia, Efrin l. Mr. Mejia was not present, to be continued.

Myerson, Angela m. Ms. Myerson was present and agreed to be continued.

Parker, David Earl Sr. n. Mr. Parker was present and agreed to be continued.

Smith, Charles o.

Mr. Smith was present and agreed to be continued.

14. Maintenance & Reactivation – Voluntary Relinquishment This was continued.

15. Deceased Licensees There was continued.

16. Reports

Prosecuting Attorney Report- Chief Attorney; Ms. Miller a.

This was continued.

17. Committee Discussion

Rules Committee Meeting Minutes - February 25, 2020 meeting a. This was continued.

Budget Task Force Minutes – April 22, 2020 b. This was continued.

Continuing Education Committee Meeting Minutes – April 21, 2020 c. This was continued.

Educational Committee Meeting Minutes - March 9, 2020 d. This was continued.

18. Rules

Rules Report – Assistant Attorney General, Ms. Munson a. Ms. Munson reported on Rules that have been adopted and are now in effect, she stated that Rule 61H1-27.002 Concentration in Accounting & Business will be brought back before the Rules Committee, due to the letter received from the Joint Administrative Procedure Code.

Discuss Emergency Rule regarding Continuing Education Deadlines b. Motion was made by Mr. Socorro, seconded by Mr. Platau to approve the Emergency Rule regarding the deadlines for Continuing Education. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously.

19. Administration

Remarks from Executive Director 100 % Compliance Project a.

This was continued.

Discussion on Covid19 NASBA – Recommendation to b.Extend NTS and Credit Expirations

This was discussed and voted on in 19 b – Discuss Emergency Rule regarding Continuing Education Deadlines.

Update from board Members serving on NASBA Committees c. There were not updates.

20. Florida Institute of Certified Public Accounting

Mr. Thames reported that the FICPA has been for the last few months focusing on virtual Continuing Education, and that he appreciates the approval of the Emergency Rule for Continuing Education deadlines.

21. NASBA

Consider sending Representation to the NASBA Eastern Regional Meeting 2020 (Virtual Meeting) This was continued

22. Public Comments

There were none at this time.

23. Old Business

There were none at this time.

24. Other Business

Mr. Socorro requested staff schedule two more Board meetings prior to the July 10, 2020 meeting. The first one to discuss the Null/Void Status and the second one to address all items on this agenda that was not discussed/reviewed.

25. Future Meetings

26. Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 5:44 p.m. Jesus Socorro, Chair

May 29, 2020 Board of Accountancy

Department of Business and Professional Regulation GoToMeeting

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Friday, May 29, 2020 The meeting was called to order at 2:11 p.m. Roll call of Attendees was called by Roger Scarborough, Director and reflected the following persons present: Board Members Staff David Dennis Present Roger Scarborough Present M.G. Fennema Present Ashley Bordeaux Present Tracy Keegan Present June Carroll Present Mindy Rankin Present Karan Lee Present Michelle Maingot Present (joined at 2:30) Steve Platau Present David Skup Present Jesus Socorro Present Rachelle Munson, Senior Assistant Attorney General and Board Counsel; Tom Thomas, Chief Legal Counsel; Department of Business and Professional Regulation. The court reporter was Jami Stanley. Mr. Thames of the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA), Director of Governmental Affairs and Ms. Deborah Curry of the FICPA, President/CEO and Ms. Jennifer Green, President Liberty Partners of Tallahassee..

1. Null & Void Discussion a. Opening Remarks b. Presentation by Jennifer Green c. Rule Making Options d. Discussion

Mr. Scarborough introduced Ms. Jennifer Green. Ms. Green presented an overview regarding the history of the Null and Void status for Florida CPAs. Ms. Green discussed the fact that several Chapters within 455, F.S. do not apply to individuals licensed under Chapter 473, F.S. The Chapters that do not apply are 455.217(7) – Examinations, 455.271(6) (a) & (b) – Inactive or delinquent status and 455.271 (1) – Inactive or delinquent status. Ms. Green explained the staff analysis of the bill indicated the intent of the bill was to establish a procedure for reinstatement of a license that has become null and void due to an illness or an unusual hardship. The bill would allow the board the discretion to reinstate a license if the individual can show there was an illness or an unusual hardship and that is why they did not renew their license. She informed the board that the bill provides board rulemaking authority for reinstatement, to include paying licensing fee, meeting CE requirements.


tel:+15713173117,,588339829

After Ms. Green’s presentation there was discussion as to what would be considered a good faith effort as well as what would qualify as an unusual hardship. It was determined it is up to the Board to determine what a “good faith” effort is. The Board discussed ways to notify licensees that there license is in danger of becoming null and void. They discussed what the requirements should be to enter back into the CPA practice, as the goal is to help individuals get back to work. There was discussion as to making this a two-step process prior to having the license current/active. After discussing the rule making options it was determined Ms. Munson would draft a rule that would have two steps, one step to reinstate the license to inactive then a second step step to change the status (or reactivate) to active status. This will be brought back to the Board with new language at their July 10, 2020 meeting.

2. Administration a. 100 % Compliance Project

i. Background & Goals ii. Executive Summary of Proposed Process iii. List of Potential Impacted Rules iv. Discussion

Mr. Scarborough stated that since the CPA profession was no longer required to submit a list of the Continuing Education (CE) hours when they renewed their license, compliance results from the audit had averaged at 87.5%, which is not in compliance with the 95% required in 455.2177 F.S. Mr. Scarborough then proposed a “100% Compliance Project”, which would comply with 455.2177 F.S. Mr. Scarborough shared that under the new process, continuing education course providers would report courses taken by licensees rather than the licensees reporting. This process would eliminate the need for the CPA audit and eliminate the need for most if not all CPE deficiency investigations and the resulting cases. He explained that Department’s Bureau of Education and Testing (BET) has a database that other Boards/Professions use in a similar fashion and that BET staff are familiar with the process and have extensive experience using it. The provider would need to register with BET and each provider and each course would be given a unique identifier. After a participant completed a course, the provider would report to BET using BET’s reporting portal or by exporting a text file to BET. BET would then populate the individual’s record. BET’s records become the “official record” and allow access by CPAs at any time. This official record has other benefits that include the Division’s ability to periodically email licensees and give them a status report on their CE and post a list of approved providers and the registered courses they offer. To become an approved provider, they would submit one course to be reviewed for each type of instructional method they deployed. The course approval criteria have not been finalized but would probably include comparing the course category (A&A, technical business, behavioral studies, ethics ) to the subject matter, determining the monitoring mechanisms are appropriate for the instructional method and that the course credits was calculated using the appropriate method.

Mr. Scarborough shared that the provider approval process was similar to that of NASBA’s National Registry and the course approval criteria were a subset of the (NASBA)/(AICPA) Standards for Continuing Professional Education After some discussion regarding instructor credit, Mr. Scarborough shared that other professions also allowed for instructor credit and the path for registering those credit might be different. After discussion amongst Board Members it was determined that this process would be reviewed and discussed in further detail at another Board meeting. The Board asked staff to poll availability and determine a date. The following rules were identified as potentially being revised. 61H1-29.003 - Experience for Licensure by Endorsement 61H1-31.014 - Continuing Education Course Approval Fees 61H1-33.001 - Certified Public Accountants Required to Comply with this Chapter 61H1-33.002 - Organization and Administration 61H1-33.003 - Continuing Professional Education 61H1-33.0031 - Continuing Professional Education/Ethics 61H1-33.0032 - Board Approval of CPA Ethics Continuing Education by Providers 61H1-33.0033 - Obligations of CPA Ethics Course Continuing Education Providers 61H1-33.0034- Evaluation of CPA Ethics Course Providers 61H1-33.00341 - Duration of CPA Ethics Course Provider Status 61H1-33.00342 - CPA Ethics Courses- Standards for Approval of Courses Motion was made by Ms. Keegan, seconded by Ms. Maingot, to open Rules for Rule Development. Motion passed with Mr. Platau voting no.

3. Public Comments

There was none at this time.

4. Old Business


5. Other Business


6. Future Meetings This was an informational item.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:25 p.m. Jesus Socorro, Chair

Wesley Hufford Case #2018-003631 Final Order dated: August 30, 2018 Mr. Hufford is requesting the Practice Restriction be removed from his license AC #20984. The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) has “Terminated” the sanction against Mr. Hufford effective June 10, 2020. The Final Order required: Reprimand Probation for one year - completed CPE – 16 hours of accounting and auditing - completed Practice Restrictions Pre-issuance Review of any attestation engagements for the next five years at Mr. Hufford’s expense, by a board approved consultant Cost of $95.30 - completed

Florida Board of Accountancy 240 NW 76 Dr, Gainesville, FL 32607 RE: DBPR CASE NO: 2018-003631 License number: AC 20984 Dear Board of Accountancy As noted in the Settlement Stipulation for Case No. 2018-003681 (paragraph 11; page 3) against Wesley H. Hufford (Hufford). Hufford has a “Practice Restriction” that notes that Hufford shall refrain from performing audits of public companies, and that Hufford shall submit in a written request to have the restriction removed by the board. This letter is a written request to the Florida Board Accountancy requesting the “Practice Restriction” be removed as it relates to performing audits of public companies. The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) has “Terminated” the sanction against Hufford effective June 10, 2020. Thank you, Wesley H. Hufford, CPA 407 Dennison Road Lutz, FL 33548 {813}361-5741

1666 K Street NW Washington, DC 20006 Office: (202) 207-9100

Fax: (202) 862-8430 www.pcaobus.org

June 10, 2020

BY EMAIL: [email protected]

Wesley H. Hufford 407 Dennison Road Tampa, FL 33548

Re: Petition to Terminate Bar

Dear Mr. Hufford:

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board ("PCAOB" or "Board") has considered your petition, pursuant to PCAOB Rule 5302(b), to terminate the bar on your association with a registered public accounting firm and for Board consent to your association with a registered firm. Enclosed please find a Board order granting your petition. The order will also be publicly available on the Board's web site.

Sincerely,

Phoebe W. Brown Secretary



ORDER GRANTING PETITIONS TO TERMINATE BARS AND CONSENTING TO ASSOCIATION WITH A REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

In the Matter of Raydell Stevenson, CPA, and Wesley H. Hufford, CPA

) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) )

PCAOB Release No. 105-2020-006

June 10, 2020

On December 19, 2017, the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“Board” or “PCAOB”) issued an order instituting disciplinary proceedings, making findings and imposing sanctions that barred Raydell Stevenson, CPA, and Wesley Hufford, CPA, from being associated persons of a registered public accounting firm. Stevenson and Hufford were permitted, pursuant to the order, to petition for Board consent to associate with a registered public accounting firm after two years from the date of the order.1 Stevenson and Hufford have each filed a petition to terminate the bar and for Board consent to associate with Stevenson & Company CPAs LLC (“Stevenson & Co.” or “Firm”), a public accounting firm registered with the Board pursuant to Section 102 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended, and PCAOB Rules. By this Order, the Board is granting Stevenson’s and Hufford’s petitions.

In the order imposing sanctions against Stevenson and Hufford, the Board found that Stevenson, Hufford, and Stevenson & Co., a registered public accounting firm, violated PCAOB rules and standards in the audits of the financial statements of two issuer clients. Petitioners consented to the entry of the Order without admitting or denying the findings in it, except as to the Board’s jurisdiction over them and the subject matter of the proceedings, which they admitted.

PCAOB Rule 5302(b) governs petitions to terminate a bar from being an associated person of a registered public accounting firm. Such petitions must be supported by an affidavit addressing certain factors and include certain exhibits as specified in PCAOB Rule 5302(b)(2). PCAOB Rule 5302(b)(3) requires the petitioner to make a showing satisfactory for the Board to be able to determine that the proposed

1 In the Matter of Stevenson & Company CPAs LLC a/k/a Stevenson & Company CPAs; Raydell Stevenson, CPA; and Wesley H. Hufford, CPA, PCAOB Rel. No. 105-2017-049 (December 19, 2017).

PCAOB Release No. 105-2020-005 June 10, 2020

ORDER Page 2

association would be consistent with the public interest. Such a determination depends on the petitioner’s specific facts and circumstances.

On the basis of the information supplied and representations made relating to factors identified in PCAOB Rule 5302(b)(4), it appears that Stevenson and Hufford have met the requirements of PCAOB Rule 5302(b) and that they have complied with the December 19, 2017, order barring them from being associated persons of a registered public accounting firm. Moreover, nothing has come to the Board’s attention that would be a basis for adverse decisions on Stevenson’s and Hufford’s petitions.

In view of the foregoing, the Board determines that the proposed association would be consistent with the public interest. Accordingly, it is hereby ORDERED that:

A. The Board consents to Raydell Stevenson, CPA’s, and Wesley H. Hufford, CPA’s, association with Stevenson & Co. CPAs LLC, a registered public accounting firm;

B. The bars against Raydell Stevenson, CPA, and Wesley H. Hufford, CPA, from being associated persons of a registered public accounting firm are hereby terminated;

C. Raydell Stevenson, CPA, and Wesley H. Hufford, CPA, each separately agrees that, for a period of one year from the date the Board grants the petition to terminate his bar, he undertakes:

i. To be supervised for all work performed that is subject to the Board’s jurisdiction, as set forth in Title I of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended;

ii. that his supervisor will be Robert Milner, CPA, shareholder of Accell Audit and Compliance, P.A.;

iii. that he will provide his supervisor with a copy of the Board order granting the petition to terminate his bar; and

iv. that he will certify in writing to the Director of the Division of Enforcement and Investigations, Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, 1666 K Street, N.W., Washington D.C. 20006, his compliance with the above undertakings. The certification shall identify the undertakings, provide written evidence of compliance in the form of a narrative, and be supported by exhibits sufficient to demonstrate compliance. Stevenson and Hufford shall submit such certification within thirty (30) days of the close of the one year period from the date the Board grants their petitions to terminate their bars. During and after such one year


ORDER Page 3

period, Stevenson and Hufford shall also submit such additional evidence of and information concerning their compliance as the staff of the Division of Enforcement and Investigations may reasonably request.

ISSUED BY THE BOARD.


June 10, 2020





June 17, 2020 Wesley Hufford 407 Dennison Road Lutz, FL 33548 Re: Case #2018-003631 Dear Mr. Hufford: The request to have the practice restrictions lifted from your license must be reviewed by the Board of Accountancy. The Board of Accountancy will consider your request at the following date, time and place: DATE AND TIME: Friday, July 10, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. or as soon thereafter as can be heard.

To join the meeting, go to https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/588339829

You can also dial in using your phone United States: +1 (571) 317-3117.

Access Code: 588-339-829 This is an open meeting. Your attendance is not mandatory; however, the Board of Accountancy strongly encourages your attendance so that you may address any questions that might arise during the Board’s discussion. Please notify the board office in writing or via email at [email protected] or by phone at 352-333-2505 by July 2, 2020, if you plan to attend.

*Please note this will be a large conference call and may take several hours. We appreciate everyone calling in a few minutes prior to the start of the meeting to hear instructions and guidance for participation. If you are able log in online, please try to enter your full name so it is easier for us to identify who is speaking.



tel:+15713173117,,588339829

mailto:[email protected]

Raydell Stevenson Case #2018-003623 Final Order dated: September 20, 2018 Mr. Stevenson is requesting the Practice Restriction be removed from his license AC #40388. The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) has “Terminated” the sanction against Mr. Stevenson effective June 10, 2020. The Final Order required: Reprimand Probation for one year - completed CPE – 16 hours of accounting and auditing - completed Practice Restrictions Pre-issuance Review of any attestation engagements for the next five years at Mr. Stevenson’s expense, by a board approved consultant Cost of $147.50 - completed

Florida Board of Accountancy

240 NW 76th Drive, Gainesville,

FL 32607

Email: [email protected]

RE: DBPR CASE NO: 2018-003623

License number: AC 40388

Dear Florida Board of Accountancy

As noted in the Settlement Stipulation for Case No. 2018-003623 (paragraph 11; page 3)

against Raydell Stevenson (Stevenson). Stevenson has a “Practice Restriction” that notes that

Stevenson shall refrain from performing audits of public companies, and that Stevenson shall

submit in a written request to have the restriction removed by the board.

This letter is a written request to the Florida Board Accountancy requesting the “Practice

Restriction” be removed as it relates to performing audits of public companies. The Public

Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) has “Terminated” the sanction against

Stevenson effective June 10, 2020 (see attached Termination Notice).

Thank you,

Raydell Stevenson, CPA

Phone #: 813-310-2465

Email: [email protected]



June 10, 2020

BY EMAIL: [email protected]

Raydell Stevenson 10727 Pictorial Park Drive Tampa, FL 33647

Re: Petition to Terminate Bar

Dear Mr. Stevenson:

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board ("PCAOB" or "Board") has considered your petition, pursuant to PCAOB Rule 5302(b), to terminate the bar on your association with a registered public accounting firm and for Board consent to your association with a registered firm. Enclosed please find a Board order granting your petition. The order will also be publicly available on the Board's web site.

Sincerely,




ORDER GRANTING PETITIONS TO TERMINATE BARS AND CONSENTING TO ASSOCIATION WITH A REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

In the Matter of Raydell Stevenson, CPA, and Wesley H. Hufford, CPA

) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) )

PCAOB Release No. 105-2020-006

June 10, 2020

On December 19, 2017, the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“Board” or “PCAOB”) issued an order instituting disciplinary proceedings, making findings and imposing sanctions that barred Raydell Stevenson, CPA, and Wesley Hufford, CPA, from being associated persons of a registered public accounting firm. Stevenson and Hufford were permitted, pursuant to the order, to petition for Board consent to associate with a registered public accounting firm after two years from the date of the order.1 Stevenson and Hufford have each filed a petition to terminate the bar and for Board consent to associate with Stevenson & Company CPAs LLC (“Stevenson & Co.” or “Firm”), a public accounting firm registered with the Board pursuant to Section 102 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended, and PCAOB Rules. By this Order, the Board is granting Stevenson’s and Hufford’s petitions.

In the order imposing sanctions against Stevenson and Hufford, the Board found that Stevenson, Hufford, and Stevenson & Co., a registered public accounting firm, violated PCAOB rules and standards in the audits of the financial statements of two issuer clients. Petitioners consented to the entry of the Order without admitting or denying the findings in it, except as to the Board’s jurisdiction over them and the subject matter of the proceedings, which they admitted.

PCAOB Rule 5302(b) governs petitions to terminate a bar from being an associated person of a registered public accounting firm. Such petitions must be supported by an affidavit addressing certain factors and include certain exhibits as specified in PCAOB Rule 5302(b)(2). PCAOB Rule 5302(b)(3) requires the petitioner to make a showing satisfactory for the Board to be able to determine that the proposed

1 In the Matter of Stevenson & Company CPAs LLC a/k/a Stevenson & Company CPAs; Raydell Stevenson, CPA; and Wesley H. Hufford, CPA, PCAOB Rel. No. 105-2017-049 (December 19, 2017).


ORDER Page 2

association would be consistent with the public interest. Such a determination depends on the petitioner’s specific facts and circumstances.

On the basis of the information supplied and representations made relating to factors identified in PCAOB Rule 5302(b)(4), it appears that Stevenson and Hufford have met the requirements of PCAOB Rule 5302(b) and that they have complied with the December 19, 2017, order barring them from being associated persons of a registered public accounting firm. Moreover, nothing has come to the Board’s attention that would be a basis for adverse decisions on Stevenson’s and Hufford’s petitions.

In view of the foregoing, the Board determines that the proposed association would be consistent with the public interest. Accordingly, it is hereby ORDERED that:

A. The Board consents to Raydell Stevenson, CPA’s, and Wesley H. Hufford, CPA’s, association with Stevenson & Co. CPAs LLC, a registered public accounting firm;

B. The bars against Raydell Stevenson, CPA, and Wesley H. Hufford, CPA, from being associated persons of a registered public accounting firm are hereby terminated;

C. Raydell Stevenson, CPA, and Wesley H. Hufford, CPA, each separately agrees that, for a period of one year from the date the Board grants the petition to terminate his bar, he undertakes:

i. To be supervised for all work performed that is subject to the Board’s jurisdiction, as set forth in Title I of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended;

ii. that his supervisor will be Robert Milner, CPA, shareholder of Accell Audit and Compliance, P.A.;

iii. that he will provide his supervisor with a copy of the Board order granting the petition to terminate his bar; and

iv. that he will certify in writing to the Director of the Division of Enforcement and Investigations, Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, 1666 K Street, N.W., Washington D.C. 20006, his compliance with the above undertakings. The certification shall identify the undertakings, provide written evidence of compliance in the form of a narrative, and be supported by exhibits sufficient to demonstrate compliance. Stevenson and Hufford shall submit such certification within thirty (30) days of the close of the one year period from the date the Board grants their petitions to terminate their bars. During and after such one year


ORDER Page 3

period, Stevenson and Hufford shall also submit such additional evidence of and information concerning their compliance as the staff of the Division of Enforcement and Investigations may reasonably request.

ISSUED BY THE BOARD.


June 10, 2020

STATE OF FLORIDA BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL REGULATION,

Department of Business and Professional Regulation Deputy Agency Clerk

CLERK Brandon Nichols

Date 9/20/2018 File # 2018-07797

F I LED

Petitioner,

v. DBPR CASE NO.: 2018-003623 AC 40388

RAYDELL STEVENSON,

Respondent. --------------------------~/

FINAL ORDER

THIS CAUSE came before the Board of Accountancy (Board) pursuant to Sections

120.569 and 120.57(4), Florida Statutes, on August 10, 2018, Florida, for the purpose of

considering a Stipulation (attached hereto as Exhibit A) entered into between the parties in this

cause. Upon consideration of the Stipulation, the documents submitted in support thereof, the

arguments of the parties, and being otherwise fully advised in the premises, the Board rejected

the Stipulation and offered a Counterstipulation, embodied in the Board's order filed August 27,

2018 (attached hereto as Exhibit B). By notice received via email on September 6, 2018,

Respondent timely accepted the Board's Counterstipulation.

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that the Stipulation submitted, with the ,

amendments set forth in the Counterstipulation, be and is hereby approved and adopted, with

both exhibits incorporated herein by reference. Accordingly, the parties shall adhere to and

abide by all the terms and conditions of the Stipulation as amended by the Counterstipulation.

This Final Order shall take effect upon being filed with the Clerk of the Department of

Business and Professional Regulation.

F I LED Deportment of Business and Prof ... ional Regulation

Deputy Agency Clerk

CLERK Brandon Nichols

Date 8/27/2018 File #


DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL REGULATION,

Petitioner,

v. DBPR CASE NO.: 2018-003623 AC 40388

RA YDELL STEVENSON,

Respondent. ______ ~------------------~I

ORDER REJECT.ING SETTLEMENT STIPULATION AND OFFERING COUNTER TERMS

Respondent is duly registered as a certified public accountant in the State of Florida.

Petitioner filed an Administrative Complaint against Respondent on or about May 3, 2018, a

copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit "An and incorporated by reference into this Order.

The parties entered into a stipulation, a copy of which is attached as Exhibit "B" and

incorporated by reference into this Order. At its duly-noticed public meeting held August 10,

2018, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, the Florida Board of Accountancy (hereafter Board), voted to

reject the Settlement Stipulation as an inappropriate disposition in this case. Respondent was

neither present at the meeting nor represented by counsel; the Department was represented by

Joseph Klein, Senior Attorney, and the Board was represented by Mary Ellen Clark, Senior

Assistant Attorney General.

Upon consideration of the Administrative Complaint and the proposed stipulation in this

matter and being otherwise fully advised in the premises, the Board voted to REJECT the

Settlement Stipulation and to offer Respondent a Counterstipulation. The terms of the

Counterstipulation are embodied in this Order and consist of all the terms in the original

Settlement Stipulation, except as follows:

Paragraph 12 of the Stipulated Disposition shall be replaced in its entirety with the

following (the second paragraph in the original Paragraph 12 of Settlement Stipulation having

been deleted):

PRE-ISSUANCE REVIEW: Respondent agrees that the next attestation work product he plans to issue involving professional service, within five (5) years from the filing date of filing of the Final Order in this matter, subject to the practice restriction referenced in paragraph eleven (11), shall be subject to a pre-issuance review by a Board-approved consultant. Any expenses incurred by Respondent as a result of the pre-issuance review and its compliance shall be paid for by Respondent. Respondent's reviewing consultant shall submit a written report to the Division's Board Office at the conclusion of the pre-issuance review.

Respondent shall accept or reject the Board's Counterstipulation offer in writing, ensuring any

acceptance is received by the Board Office within thirty (30) calendar days of the entry of this

Order. Should written acceptance of the Board's Counterstipulation offer not be received timely,

Respondent shall be deemed to have rejected same .

. This Order shall become effective upon filing with the Clerk of the Department of Business

and Professional Regulation.

DONE AND ORDERED this ___,_d~1)_P __ day of (lu ~ua± 2018, by the Florida Board of Accountancy.

Veloria A. Kelly, Division irector Florida Board of Accountancy .,/

Page 2 of 3

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE

I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing Order has been

provided by U.S. Mail to: Raydell Stevenson, 10727 Pictorial Park Drive, Tampa, FL 33647;

Brande L. Miller, Esquire, Department of Business and Professional Regulation, 2601 Blair Stone

~~ day of Road, Suite 318, Tallahassee, FL 32399, by 5:00 p.m., this

_-=-fh_.......,~~LA ...... .s=--\- , 2018.

Page 3 of 3

STATE OF FLORIDA

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL REGULATION

BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND

PROFESSIONAL REGULATION,

Petitioner,

Case No. 2018-003623

v.

RA YDELL STEVENSON,

Respondent,

I ---------------------------

SETTLEMENT STIPULATION

RAYDELL STEVENSON ("Respondent") and the Department of Business and

Professional Regulation ("Petitioner") stipulate and agree to the following joint Stipulation and

to the entry of a Final Order of the Florida Board of Accountancy (the "Board") incorporating

this Stipulation in this matter.

STIPULATED FACTS

1. At all times material hereto, Respondent was licensed in Florida by Petitioner as a

certified public accountant, having been issued license number AC 40388.

2. Respondent was charged with an Administrative Complaint filed by Petitioner and

properly served upon Respondent with violations of Chapter 455 and/or 473, Florida Statutes,

and/or the rules enacted pursuant thereto. A true and correct copy of the Administrative

Complaint is attached hereto and incorporated by reference as EXHIBIT A.

3. Respondent neither admits nor denies the allegations contained in the

Administrative Complaint.

STIPULATED CONCLUSIONS OF LAW

4. Respondent, in the capacity of a licensed Certified Public Accountant, admits to

being subject to the provisions of Chapters 455 and 473, Florida Statutes, and the jurisdiction of

the Department and the Board.

5. Respondent admits that the facts set forth in the foregoing Stipulated Facts, if

proven, would constitute a violation of Chapter 473, Florida Statutes, and the rules promulgated

pursuant thereto, as alleged in the Administrative Complaint.

6. Respondent agrees that the Board's acceptance of this Stipulation constitutes

disciplinary action within the meaning of Chapters 473 and 455, Florida Statutes, and the rules

promulgated pursuant thereto.

STIPULATED DISPOSITION

7. Respondent shall not, in the future, violate Chapters 455 and 473, Florida

Statutes, or the rules promulgated pursuant thereto.

8. REPRIMAND: Respondent's license is hereby reprimanded.

9. PROBATION: Respondent's license shall be placed on probation for a term of

one (1) year, and shall commence the day immediately following the date of entry of the Final

Order in this matter by the Board of Accountancy, which Final Order incorporates this

Stipulation. After the probationary period begins, should Respondent's license be suspended or

otherwise placed into inactive status, or if Respondent leaves the practice of certified public

accounting for thirty (30) days or more, the probationary period shall be tolled, and shall resume

running at the time Respondent's license becomes active or Respondent returns to the practice of

DBPR v. Raydell Stevenson Case No. 2018-003623

2

\

certified public accounting.

10. CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION HOURS: Respondent shall

complete sixteen (I6) continuing professional education ("CPE") hours for Auditing and

Accounting, which shall not be eligible for use toward meeting the requirements of any CPE re-

establishment period. Proof of completion of the CPE hours shall be submitted to the Board's

Division Office within ninety (90) days of the filing date of the Final Order in this matter, which

Final Order incorporates this Stipulation.

11. PRACTICE RESTRICTION: Respondent agrees to immediately restrict his

professional practice, and hereby shall refrain from performing audits of public companies.

Should Respondent want to perform audits of public companies in the future, Respondent must

submit a written request to have this restriction removed by the Board.

12. PRE-ISSUANCE REVIEW: Respondent agrees that the next work product he

plans to issue within one (1) year from the filing date of the Final Order involving professional

services, subject to the practice restriction referenced in paragraph eleven (11), shall be subject to

a pre-issuance review by a Board-approved consultant. Any expenses incurred by Respondent as

a result of the pre-issuance review and its compliance shall be paid for by Respondent.

Respondent's reviewing consultant shall submit a written report to the Division's Board Office at

the conclusion of the pre-issuance review.

The practice restriction referenced in paragraph eleven (11) shall be removed if the

consultant's written report does not express any concerns as confirmed compliance, but should

the reviewing consultant's written report express any concerns as a result of Respondent's pre-

issuance review, both Respondent and the consultant shall appear before the Board's Probation

OSPR v. Raydell Stevenson Case No. 2018-003623

3

Committee at its Probable Cause Panel meeting immediately following the written report's

submission in order to present and address the concerns.

13. COSTS: Respondent shall pay investigative costs, excluding attorney's fees, of

one hundred and forty-seven dollars and 501100 ($147.50). Said costs shall be paid by

Respondent to the Executive Director of the Division of Certified Public Accounting, 240 NW

76th Drive, Suite A, Gainesville, Florida 23607, within thirty (30) days of the filing date of the

Final Order by the Board of Accountancy, which Final Order incorporates this Stipulation.

Respondent's failure to pay the costs by the time due may result in further disciplinary action by

the Board.

14. Respondent agrees to waive demand, notice of non-payment, and protest; and in

the event a suit may be brought for the collection of the outstanding balance of the fine, default

interest, or costs, or if this Stipulation must be collected upon demand of an attorney, Respondent

shall be liable to pay court costs and a reasonable attorney fee for such collection.

15. It is expressly understood that this proposed Stipulation is subject to the approval

of the Board and the Department. Therefore, no part of the Stipulation shall have force and effect

unless it is adopted and incorporated into a Final Order entered by the Board. The terms of this

Stipulation are made for purpose of settlement only, and neither the Department nor the Board is

bound by those terms should Respondent reject or fail to execute this Stipulation.

16. It is expressly understood that should this Stipulation be rejected, no statement

made in furtherance of this Stipulation by either party may be used as evidence in any

subsequent proceeding herein.

OBPR v. Raydell Stevenson Case No. 2018-003623

4

17. This Stipulation is to be construed and enforced according to the laws of the State

of Florida, and venue for any legal action related to this Stipulation is agreed by the parties to be

in Leon County Florida.

18. The parties fully understand that this Stipulation and subsequent Final Order

incorporating same will in no way preclude additional proceedings by the Board andlor the

Department against the Respondent for acts or omissions not specifically set forth in the

Administrative Complaint attached hereto as EXHlBIT A.

19. Upon the Board's adoption of this Stipulation, Respondent expressly waives all

further procedural steps in this matter and rights to seek judicial review of or to otherwise

challenge or contest this Stipulation or the Final Order of the Board incorporating this

Stipulation.

20. Upon the Board's adoption of this Stipulation, the Respondent agrees to bear his

attorney's fees and costs which may have resulted from defense of this proceeding, and

Respondent waives the right to seek any attorney's fees or costs from the Department in

connection with this disciplinary proceeding.

21. This Stipulation is executed by the Respondent for the purpose of Final Agency

Action in this matter, and in furtherance of that purpose Respondent authorizes the Board

members to review and examine all investigative file materials concerning Respondent prior to,

or in conjunction with their consideration of the Stipulation. Should the Stipulation be rejected

by the Board, Respondent agrees that the Board's consideration of this Stipulation and associated

documents and matters shall not unfairly or illegally prejudice the Board or any Board members

from further participation in the resolution of this matter.


5

WHEREFORE. the parties hereto request the Board of Accountancy to enter a Final

Order accepting and implementing the terms contained herein.

Signed this .2J_ day of--L....M.._.._g_-l-+-Y --", 2018. /

Respondent

Approved this 31st day of __ ,,-,-M=a~y .:» 2018.

P::§r~ Assistant General Counsel Florida Bar No. 50943 Department of Business and Professional Regulation

Division of Certified Public Accounting Office of the General Counsel 2601 Blair Stone Road Tallahassee~ Florida 32399 (850) 717-1190 Telephone [email protected] (primary e-mail address) [email protected] (secondary e-mail address)


6

CLERK

STATE OF FLORIDA Date

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL REGULA_Fil_e# _ BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY

F I LED Department of Business and Professional Regulation

Deputy Agency Clerk

EveHs Lawson-Proctor 5/14/2018

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND

PROFESSIONAL REGULATION,

Petitioner,

v. Case No. 2018-003623

RA YDELL STEVENSON,

Respondent.

--------------------------------~/

ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINT

Petitioner, the Department Of Business and Professional Regulation ("Petitioner"), files

this Administrative Complaint before the Board of Accountancy ("Board"), against Respondent,

RA YDELL STEVENSON ("Respondent").

1. Petitioner is the state agency charged with regulating the practice of public

accountancy, pursuant to Section 20.165, Florida Statutes, and Chapters 455 and 473, Florida

Statutes.

2. Respondent's address of record is 10727 Pictorial Park Drive, Tampa, Florida

33647.

3. At all times material to this Complaint, Respondent was licensed as a Certified

Public Accountant ("CPA") in the State of Florida, having been issued license number AC 40388

on May 27, 2008.

MATERIAL FACTS

4. On or about December 19, 2017, the Public Company Accounting Oversight

Board ("PCAOB") issued an Order Instituting Disciplinary Proceedings, Making Findings, and

Imposing Sanctions ("Order"), in PCAOB Release No. 105-2017-049, against Respondent,

Wesley Hufford ("Hufford"), and Stevenson & Company CPAs LLC ("Firm").

5. The Order made the following findings:

a. At all relevant times, AF Ocean Investment Management Co. ("AF Ocean") was a Florida corporation headquartered in Ellenton, Florida.

b. Hufford was the engagement partner for the Firm's audit of the December 31, 2015 financial statements of AF Ocean. On April 9, 2016, Hufford authorized the Firm's issuance of an audit report expressing an unqualified opinion on AF Ocean's financial statements. The audit report was included in the Form 10-K that AF Ocean filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("Commission") on April 14, 2016.

c. In its Form 10-K, AF Ocean disclosed intangible assets with an indefinite life of $294,193, which represented approximately 34 percent of total assets and a net loss of $316,877 for 2015. In addition, AF Ocean's Form 10-K disclosed that the intangible assets consisted of a business license that allowed the issuer to do business in China.

d. In connection with the 2015 audit of AF Ocean, Hufford and the Firm identified a significant risk related to the improper valuation of intangible assets. Other than obtaining management representations, Hufford and the Firm failed to perform any substantive procedures regarding whether the intangible assets were impaired, including tests of details, that were specifically responsive to the assessed risks. Therefore, Hufford and the Firm failed to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence to determine whether the intangible assets were properly valued.

e. In reviewing the intangible assets work papers in his capacity as engagement quality reviewer ("EQR"), Respondent was aware that no audit procedures regarding the intangible asset's impairment had been performed by the engagement team. As such, Respondent was aware of a significant engagement deficiency, because the engagement team failed to obtain sufficient appropriate evidence regarding the intangible asset's valuation in accordance with PCAOB standards. Despite being aware of this significant engagement deficiency, Respondent provided his concurring approval of issuance for the audit without performing the EQR with due professional care, in violation of AS 7.

f. At all relevant times, MagneGas was a Delaware corporation headquartered in Clearwater, Florida.

g. Respondent was the engagement partner for the Firm's audit of the December 31, 2015 financial statements of MagneGas. On March 21, 2016, Respondent authorized the Firm's issuance of an audit report expressing an unqualified

2

opinion on MagneGas' financial statements. The audit report was included in

the Form 10-K that MagneGas filed with the Commission on March 23, 2016.

h. In its Form 10-K, MagneGas disclosed goodwill, definite lived intangible

assets, and property and equipment that together represented approximately 48

percent of total assets of $17.8 million and a net loss of $9.1 million for 2015.

i. In connection with the 2015 audit of MagneGas, Respondent and the Firm

identified a fraud risk related to the improper valuation of goodwill, finite

lived intangible assets, and property and equipment. Other than obtaining

management representations, Respondent and the Firm failed to perform any

substantive procedures regarding whether the goodwill, finite-lived intangible

assets, and property and equipment were impaired, including tests of details,

that were specifically responsive to the assessed risks." Therefore, Respondent

and the Firm failed to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence to

determine whether the goodwill, finite-lived intangible assets, and property

and equipment were properly valued.

6. The Order imposed the following sanctions:

a. Pursuant to Section 105(c)(4)(E) of the Act and PCAOB Rule 5300(a)(5),

Respondent was censured;

b. Pursuant to Section 105(c)(4)(B) of the Act and PCAOB Rule 5300(a)(2),

Respondent was barred from being an associated person of a registered public

accounting firm, as that term is defined in Section 2(a)(9) of the Act and

PCAOB Rule lOOI(p)(i); and

c. After two (2) years from the date of the Order, Respondent may file a petition,

pursuant to PCAOB Rule 5302(b), for consent to associate with a registered

public accounting firm.

COUNT I

7. Petitioner re-alleges and incorporates by reference the allegations set forth in

paragraphs one (1) through six (6) as though fully set forth herein.

8. Section 473.323(1)(j), Florida Statutes (2017), provides that "[sJuspension or

revocation of the right to practice before any state or federal agency or the Public Company

Accounting Oversight Board" constitutes grounds for which disciplinary action may be taken.

3

9. Based on the foregoing, Respondent violated Section 473.323(1)G), Florida

Statutes (2017), by being barred by the PCAOB from being an associated person of a registered

accounting firm.

COUNT II


paragraphs one (1) through five (5) as though fully set forth herein.

11. Section 473.323(1)(h), Florida Statutes (2017), provides that a certified public

accountant may be subject to disciplinary action for a H[ v ]iolation of any rule adopted pursuant

to this chapter or chapter 455."

12. Rule 61HI-22.001(2), Florida Administrative Code, provides that "[a] certified

public accountant shall comply with the following general standards and must justify any

departures therefrom: ... A certified public accountant shall exercise due professional care in the

performance of an engagement."

13. Based on the foregoing, Respondent violated Section 473.323(1)(h), Florida

Statutes (2017), through a violation of Rule 61HI-22.001, Florida Administrative Code, by

providing his concurring approval of issuance of the AF Ocean audit, as engagement quality

reviewer, despite being aware of a significant engagement deficiency.

COUNT III


paragraphs one (1) through five (5) as though fully set forth herein.

15. Section 473.323(1 )(h), Florida Statutes (2017), provides that a certified public

accountant may be subject to disciplinary action for a "[vjiolation of any rule adopted pursuant

to this chapter or chapter 455."

4

16. Rule 61Hl-22.001(4), Florida Administrative Code, provides that H[a] certified

public accountant shall comply with' the following general standards and must justify any

departures therefrom: ... A certified public accountant shall obtain sufficient relevant data to

afford a reasonable basis for conclusions or recommendations in relation to an engagement."

17. Based on the foregoing, Respondent violated Section 473.323(1)(h), Florida

Statutes (2017), through a violation of Rule 61HI-22.001(4), Florida Administrative Code, by

failing to obtain sufficient audit evidence to determine whether the intangible assets, property,

and equipment of MagneGas were properly valued, despite an identified fraud risk of improper

valuation.

(SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS)

5

WHEREFORE. Petitioner respectfully requests that the Board of Accountancy enter an

order imposing one or more of the following penalties: permanent revocation or suspension of

Respondent's license, restriction of practice, imposition of an administrative fine, issuance of a

reprimand, placement of Respondent on probation, assessment of costs, corrective action andlor

any other relief that the Board deems appropriate.

Signed this 7th day of May, 2018.

JONATHAN ZACHEM, Secretary

Department of Business and

Professional Regulation

By: IsIJlnarew.7. Pietry{o, .7r. Andrew J. Pietrylo, Jr.

Assistant General Counsel

Florida Bar No. 118851

Department of Business and

Professional Regulation

Division of Certified Public Accounting

Office of the General Counsel

2601 Blair Stone Road

Tallahassee, Florida 32399

(850) 717-1249 Telephone

(850) 414-6749 Facsimile

[email protected]

(Primary e-mail address)

[email protected]

(Secondary e-mail address)

PC Found: May 3,2018

PC Found By: Borders, Caldwell, Rankin, Skup, Socorro

IAJP/jf

2018-003623

6

NOTICE OF RIGHTS

Please be advised that mediation under section 120.573, Florida Statutes, is not available

for administrative disputes involving this type of agency action.

Please be advised that Respondent has the right to request a hearing to be conducted in

accordance with sections 120.569 and 120.57, Florida Statutes, to be represented by counselor

other qualified representative, to present evidence and argument, to call and cross-examine

witnesses and to have subpoenas and subpoenas duces tecum issued on his or her behalf if a

hearing is requested. Any request for an administrative proceeding to challenge or contest the

charges contained in the administrative complaint must conform to Rule 28-106.2015, Florida

Administrative Code. Rule 28-106.111, Florida Administrative Code, provides in part that if

Respondent fails to request a hearing within 21 days of receipt of an agency pleading,

Respondent waives the right to request a hearing on the facts alleged.

NOTICE REGARDING ASSESSMENT OF COSTS

Respondent is placed on notice that Petitioner has incurred costs related to the

investigation and prosecution of this matter. Pursuant to section 455.227(3)(a), Florida Statutes,

the Board, or the Department when there is no Board, may assess costs related to the

investigation and prosecution of the case excluding costs associated with an attorney's time,

against Respondent in addition to any other discipline imposed.

7

DONE AND ORDERED this __ 1J_~ __ day of _,._"~,,,-' _,_ohi_1 ;-_--~--II-,2.L-()!.{:L?--='--- _

2018.

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE

I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing Order has been

provided by U.S. Mail to: Raydell Stevenson, 10727 Pictorial Drive, Tampa, Florida 33647;

Brande L. Miller, Esquire, Department of Business and Professional Regulation, 2601 Blair

Stone Road, Suite 318, Tallahassee, FL 32399; and Mary Ellen Clark, Senior Assistant

Attorney;t:neral, PL-01, The Capitol, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1050, by 5:00 p.m., this

20 dayo! Sep-bber ,2018.

~1Y).~

3/5/2020 Gmail - Settlement Letter

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=9755308a31&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-a%3Ar7344721993514680399&simpl=msg-a%3Ar-75871819… 1/3

Ray Stevenson <[email protected]>

Settlement Letter6 messages

Ray Stevenson <[email protected]> Mon, Sep 3, 2018 at 2:50 PMTo: "Klein, Joseph" <[email protected]>, "Morales, Amanda" <[email protected]>

Hello,

I received the settlement letter a few days ago. However, there wasn't a or any signature signing section for me to signand send back. Could you please let me know how I'm supposed to accept?

Klein, Joseph <[email protected]> Tue, Sep 4, 2018 at 11:06 AMTo: Ray Stevenson <[email protected]>

Good morning Mr. Stevenson,

To accept the Florida Board of Accountancy’s Counterstipulation, you can mail a letter to the Board’s office stating that you agreeto the terms of the Counterstipulation and would like to accept the offer.

Make sure to reference the case number and your license number in the correspondence. The address is 240 NW 76th Drive, suiteA, Gainesville, FL 23607.

Alternatively, you can accept by replying to this email with the information above and I will forward your reply to the Board.

Sincerely,

Joseph Klein

Assistant General Counsel

850.717.1190

2601 Blair Stone Road

Tallahassee, FL 32399

The State of Florida has a very broad public records lawpursuant to chapter 119, Florida Statutes. Most writtencommunications to and from state officials regarding statebusiness are public records available to the public and mediaupon request. Please be advised that your emailcommunications may be subject to public disclosure.

https://www.google.com/maps/search/240+NW+76?entry=gmail&source=g

https://www.google.com/maps/search/2601+Blair+Stone+Road+Tallahassee,+FL+32399?entry=gmail&source=g

https://www.google.com/maps/search/2601+Blair+Stone+Road+Tallahassee,+FL+32399?entry=gmail&source=g



[Quoted text hidden]

Ray Stevenson <[email protected]> Tue, Sep 4, 2018 at 3:24 PMTo: "Klein, Joseph" <[email protected]>

Reference To:DBPR CASE NO: 2018-003623License Number: AC 40388

To the Board of Accountancy:

I accept the counter-stipulation offer and terms from the Board of Accountancy.

Thank you.

[Quoted text hidden]-- Ray Stevenson, CPA

2 attachments

image001.png14K

image001.png14K

Klein, Joseph <[email protected]> Thu, Sep 6, 2018 at 12:15 PMTo: Ray Stevenson <[email protected]>

Hello Mr. Stevenson,

I have forwarded your email to the Board and it has been accepted. You should receive a final order via U.S. Mail confirming youracceptance, again within about 30 days.

As always, if you require any further clarification, or run into any difficulties, please do not hesitate to contact me.

[Quoted text hidden]

Ray Stevenson <[email protected]> Thu, Sep 6, 2018 at 12:32 PMTo: "Klein, Joseph" <[email protected]>

Great, thank you so much! [Quoted text hidden]

image001.png14K

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ui=2&ik=9755308a31&view=att&th=165a60b0b26d4921&attid=0.1&disp=inline&realattid=165a606dd0d4cff311&safe=1&zw

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ui=2&ik=9755308a31&view=att&th=165a60b0b26d4921&attid=0.2&disp=inline&realattid&safe=1&zw

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ui=2&ik=9755308a31&view=att&th=165afba926c4e591&attid=0.1&disp=inline&realattid&safe=1&zw



Ray Stevenson <[email protected]> Fri, Sep 7, 2018 at 9:11 AMTo: "Klein, Joseph" <[email protected]>

Can I proceed with CPE courses taking? I want to make sure it counts toward settlement of 16 hours.[Quoted text hidden]





June 17, 2020 Raydell Stevenson 10727 Pictorial Park Drive Tampa, FL 33647 Re: Case #2018-003623 Dear Mr. Stevenson: The request to have the practice restrictions lifted from your license must be reviewed by the Board of Accountancy. The Board of Accountancy will consider your request at the following date, time and place: DATE AND TIME: Friday, July 10, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. or as soon thereafter as can be heard.

To join the meeting, go to https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/588339829

You can also dial in using your phone United States: +1 (571) 317-3117.





tel:+15713173117,,588339829


Summary Sheet for Petition for Variance or Waiver Petitioner: Orlando Fernandez Jr. Rule: 61H1-31.003, 31.004, F.A.C. Application Number: 431328 Mr. Fernandez submitted a Change of Status Application requesting to reactivate his delinquent license on December 23, 2019. On January 7, 2020, Mr. Fernandez was noticed for the CPE reporting form and CPE certificates of proof. On January 10, 2020 the Department received a CPE reporting form from Mr. Fernandez. On January 22, 2020, Mr. Fernandez was noticed for CPE certificates of proof. On January 27, 2020 the Department received certificates of completions from Mr. Fernandez. On February 7, 2020, Mr. Fernandez was noticed for a deficiency of 40 hours of CPE to include 4 hours of Board approved ethics completed after December 23, 2017 and sufficient proof of attendance for courses listed on the reporting form. Mr. Fernandez’s license reverted to delinquent status on January 1, 2019. As a result of failing to timely renew his license, Mr. Fernandez was required to complete a total of 120 CPE hours with 30 hours of A/A and 8 hours of Board approved ethics. On June 8, 2020, Mr. Fernandez submitted a petition requesting waiver of Rule 61H1-31.003, F.A.C. and Rule 61H1- 31.004, F.A.C., which states respectively: 61H1-31.003 Renewal of Active and Inactive License Fee for CPA. For individual active and inactive status licenses, the biennial renewal fee provided for in section 473.305, F.S., shall be $100.00, with the exception that for the 2018 and 2019 renewal periods, the fee shall be $90.00. A special fee of $5.00 per licensee shall be imposed upon initial licensure and at each renewal to fund efforts to combat unlicensed activity. 61H1-31.004 Delinquency Fee. A delinquent status licensee shall pay a delinquency fee of $25.00 when the licensee applies for active or inactive status. Mr. Fernandez’s petition states, he is requesting Rule 61H1-31.003, F.A.C. and Rule 61H1-31.004, F.A.C. be reviewed and revised for the future. The petitioner states, it appears unjust that a CPA would have to complete more CPE hours when he has complied with Section 473.312 F.S., which applies to the CPE requirements as stated in the attached rule. The petitioner states, there is no mention to any financial obligations in Section 473.312 F.S. and Section 473.308(7) (2), F.S. does not mention the consequences that a CPA would face for a late payment. The petitioner states, he is requesting the financial aspect of licensing, payments to the DBPR, have no bearing on a CPA’s requirement to fulfill the CPE or the renewal. The petitioner states in today’s world a late payment of any sort is assessed as a penalty such as a late fee or service charge. The petitioner states, to further complicate the matter all communication is done via email and states his computer crashed around the time the email requesting payment was sent and he never received the request. The petitioner states, due to these facts he was required to complete forty more hours of CPE and he does not see the correlation between a late payment and continuance of education. The petitioner states, he paid the renewal for the June 30, 2020, renewal. The petitioner states, he paid $370 of which he got back $255 and does not understand why. The petitioner states he never received an email requesting the payment information and is now required to complete 40 more CPE hours. The petitioner states he believes the punishment should be a late fee payment rather than a continuance of educational hours. Board staff confirmed with DBPR that a license renewal notice for the period ending December 31, 2018 was mailed to Mr. Fernandez to 2350 Coral Way, Suite 403, Miami, Florida 33145 which was the address on file. Mr. Fernandez is requesting a waiver of Rule 61H1-31.003, F.A.C and 61H1-31.004, F.A.C. Processed by: BW on 06/16/2020 Reviewed by: ___KL___ on __06/18/2020____ Board reviewed by: ______ on _________

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL REGULATION BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY

NOTICE OF PETITION FOR VARIANCE OR WAIVER

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on June 08, 2020 the Board of Accountancy received a petition for variance or waiver filed by Orlando Fernandez, Jr., CPA. Petitioner seeks a variance or waiver of Rule 61H1-31.003, F.A.C., which states that for individual active and inactive status licenses, the biennial renewal fee provided for in Section 473.305, F.S., shall be $100.00, with the exception that for the 2018 and 2019 renewal periods, the fee shall be $90.00. A special fee of $5.00 per licensee shall be imposed upon initial licensure and at each renewal to fund efforts to combat unlicensed activity. Petitioner also seeks a variance or waiver of Rule 61H1-31.004, F.A.C., which requires that a delinquent status licensee shall pay a delinquency fee of $25.00 when the licensee applies for active or inactive status.

A copy of the Petition for Variance or Waiver may be obtained by contacting: Roger Scarborough, Division Director, Board of Accountancy, 240 NW 76th Dr., Suite A, Gainesville, Florida 32607. Comments on this petition should be filed with the Board of Accountancy within 14 days of publication of this notice.





June 18, 2020 Orlando Fernandez, Jr. 2350 Coral Way, Suite 403 Miami, FL 33145 Dear Mr. Fernandez: This is to advise that the Board of Accountancy will consider your petition for hearing pursuant to 61H1-31.003 & 61H1-31.004, F.A.C. at the following date time and place: DATE AND TIME: Friday, July 10, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. or as soon thereafter as can be heard.

To join the meeting, go

to https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/588339829 You can also dial in using your phone United States: +1 (571) 317-3117.





tel:+15713173117,,588339829


STATE OF FLORIDA BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY MEETING OF THE BOARD

July 10, 2020

EXAMINATION CONSIDERATION

CPA examination applicant(s) answered yes to one or more application background questions. In accordance with procedures application(s) are being brought before the board for consideration. Abughalia, Bahaa Disanto, Domina Khan, Christina Linero, Elay Moussadda, Abdallah Parker, Bryant Sanchez, Alex S. Walkuski, Joshua

STATE OF FLORIDA BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY MEETING OF THE

BOARD

July 10, 2020

ENDORSEMENT CONSIDERATIONS AGENDA

CPA endorsement applicant(s) answered yes to one or more of the application background questions. In accordance with instructions from the Board of Accountancy these application(s) are being brought before the board for consideration.

Calamaro, Deborah Hawbaker, Thomas McGrath, Clinton Robinson, Daniel St. Martin, Christine

STATE OF FLORIDA BOARD OF ACCOUTANCY MEETING

July 10, 2020

CONSENT AGENDA

MAINTENANCE AND REACTIVATION – NULL/VOID

Noble, Linda Parker, Cueme Sanders, Brian J


MEETING

July 10, 2020

CONSENT AGENDA

MAINTENANCE and REACTIVATION The following licensees have requested to voluntary relinquish their license. No disciplinary action pending. Licensee’s or Firm Name License Number Bensen, Diane E AC23981 Cavin, Dale Lee AC5993 Huddleston, Kimberly Beth AC38373 Sunera CPAs & Associates, LLP AD68625 Valentine, Christopher L AC12635


MEETING July 10, 2020

FIRM LIICENSURE AGENDA

CPA original applicant(s) answered yes to one or more of the application background questions. In accordance with procedures application(s) are being brought before the board for consideration.

Baker Tilley Virchow Krause, LLP





DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL REGULATION FLORIDA BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY

EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING TELEPHONE CONFERENCE CALL

December 9, 2019

MINUTES

I. Call to order The meeting was called to order at 1:00 p.m. by Dr. Fennema, Chairman. II. Roll Call The roll was called by Barbara Whitney, Regulatory Specialist II, and reflected the following: Committee Members Present: Committee Members Absent: Dr. M.G. Fennema, Chair Dr. Nicholas Mastracchio Mr. Michael Kridel Mr. Steve Platau Dr. Gary McGill Dr. Richard Morton Dr. Gregory Trompeter Staff Members Present Karan Lee Trencia Jenkins Barbara Whitney Avon Witherspoon Others Present: Rachelle Munson, Assistant Attorney General and Board Counsel Daniel Medina, University of Miami Julie Magand, University of Miami III. Ratify Minutes from September 23, 2019, meeting Motion was made by Mr. Kridel and seconded by Dr. McGill to approve the September 23, 2019, minutes. Upon vote, motion passed unanimously. IV. College/University Curriculum Review A. University of Miami ACC 626, Litigation Support & Advisory Services


Motion was made by Dr. Morton and seconded by Mr. Kridel to approve the course listed above for two (2) semester hours of graduate accounting credit. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously. ACC 628, Introduction to Accounting Analytics Motion was made by Mr. Kridel and seconded by Dr. McGill to approve the course listed above for two (2) semester hours of graduate accounting credit. Upon vote, the motion passed unanimously. V. Administrative Matters A. Laws and Rules (informational) B. Executive Director/Licensing Supervisor Comments. No comments were made by the Director or Licensing Supervisor. VI. Set future meeting date March 9, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. VII. Adjourn The meeting was adjourned at 1:12 p.m.

__________________________________________ Dr. M.G. Fennema, Chair





Board of Accountancy Budget Task Force

Minutes 1st Quarter Financials Fiscal Year 2019-20

Monday, February 5, 2020

Meeting was called to order at 10:33 p.m. by Chair, Michelle Maingot. The roll was called by Roger Scarborough, Executive Director.

Rules Committee Members Michelle Maingot Present Steven Platau Present Tracy Keegan Present David Skup Present

Roger Scarborough, Executive Director; Angela Francis, Sr. Management Supervisor; Debra Curry, FICPA; Larry Hurley/ Eric Thiele, Finance and Accounting/ DBPR; Rachelle Munson; Board Counsel

1. Discussed 1st Quarter Financials Reports pages 2-8

Larry Hurley explained the categories/ allocated costs/ expenditures/ fee holidays

a. Operating Account b. Unlicensed Activity Account c. Education Minority Assistance Program Operating Account

2. Discussed Financial (5 year Projections pages 9-11

3. Board Chair requested statutory information from Larry Hurley, Bureau Chief of

Finance and Accounting, regarding the efficiency and effectiveness of how the Board of Accountancy would operate in a deficit at the end of a fiscal year.

4. Meeting adjourned at 10:45 a.m.


ashley.bordeaux

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Steve Platau, Chair

ashley.bordeaux

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ashley.bordeaux

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DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL REGULATION FLORIDA BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY

EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING TELEPHONE CONFERENCE CALL

June 15, 2020

MINUTES

I. Call to order The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. by Dr. Fennema, Chairman. II. Roll Call The roll was called by Barbara Whitney, Regulatory Specialist II and reflected the following: Committee Members Present: Dr. M.G. Fennema, Chair Mr. Michael Kridel Dr. Nicholas Mastracchio Dr. Gary McGill Dr. Richard Morton Mr. Steve Platau Dr. Gregory Trompeter Staff Members Present: Roger Scarborough, Director Karan Lee Trencia Jenkins Aerin Davison Avon Witherspoon Barbara Whitney Others Present: Rachelle Munson, Assistant Attorney General and Board Counsel Michael Schell Raina Ashok Shah Bryan Davis III. Ratify Minutes from March 9, 2020, meeting Motion was made by Dr. Trompeter and seconded by Dr. McGill to approve the March 9, 2020, minutes. Upon vote motion passed unanimously. IV. Individual Curriculum Review


A. Michael Schell Requesting upper-division accounting credit for the following courses from Suffolk University which may duplicate ACCT 241 - Intermediate Accounting I, ACCT 404 - Auditing and ACCT 402 - Federal Taxation from Nichols College: ACCT 801 Graduate Financial Accounting I Motion was made by Dr. McGill and seconded by Dr. Trompeter to deny upper-division accounting credit for the course listed above as it duplicates ACCT 241 – Intermediate Accounting I taken at Nichols College. Upon vote the motion passed unanimously. ACCT 805 Auditing and Assurance Services Motion was made by Dr. Trompeter and seconded by Dr. Morton to deny upper-division accounting credit for the course listed above as it duplicates ACCT 404 – Auditing taken at Nichols College. Upon vote the motion passed unanimously. TAX 801 Issues in Federal Taxation Motion was made by Dr. McGill and seconded by Dr. Trompeter to deny upper-division accounting credit for the course listed above as it duplicates ACCT 402 – Federal Taxation taken at Nichols College. Upon vote the motion passed unanimously. B. Raina Ashok Shah Requesting upper-division accounting credit for the following course from the University of Maryland Global Campus: ACCT 350 Federal Financial Management Motion was made by Dr. McGill and seconded by Mr. Kridel to approve upper-division accounting credit for the course listed above. Upon vote the motion passed unanimously. C. Matthew Bryan Tedder Requesting upper-division accounting credit for the following courses from the University of Florida, College of Law: LAW 6560 Securities Regulation Motion was made by Dr. McGill and seconded by Dr. Trompeter to deny upper-division accounting credit for the course listed above. Upon vote the motion passed unanimously. LAW 6600 Income Tax Motion was made by Dr. McGill and seconded by Dr. Trompeter to deny upper-division accounting credit for the course listed above as it duplicates ACC 321, Tax Acct. I and ACC 524, Tax Acct. II, taken at Missouri State Univ. Upon vote the motion passed unanimously. D. David Reinikainen Requesting upper-division accounting credit for the following course from the University of Colorado:

FIN 520 Financial Reporting and Analysis Motion was made by Dr. Morton and seconded by Dr. Mastracchio to approve upper-division accounting credit for the course listed above. Upon vote the motion passed unanimously. E. Bryan Davis Requesting reconsideration of upper-division accounting credit for the following course from the University of Texas: ACC 381 Financial Accounting Motion was made by Dr. Morton and seconded by Dr. Mastracchio to approve upper-division accounting credit for the course listed above. Upon vote the motion passed unanimously. V. Administrative Matters A. Laws and Rules (informational) B. Executive Director/Licensing Supervisor Comments. Director Scarborough asked the Committee members to consider adding EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System) as an accrediting agency. The Director also asked the Committee members if there were other accrediting agencies that should be added to the Board rules or changes to our rules based on recent changes to the UAA. There was discussion on accrediting agencies and the need to update the list of accrediting agencies in the Board rules. The Director offered that prior to the next committee meeting staff would share with them the most recent changes to the UAA rules on accreditation and a recommendation to include EQUIS. He asked that they review that information carefully and be prepared to make recommendations the staff could then present to the Rules Committee. VI. Set future meeting date September 22, 2020, at 10:30 a.m. VII. Adjourn The meeting was adjourned at 10:50 a.m.

__________________________________________ Dr. M.G. Fennema, Chair

TO: Board of Accountancy FROM: Rachelle Munson, Board Counsel DATE: June 26, 2020 SUBJECT: Rules Information for Discussion

Board Meeting on July 10, 2020 The following are presented for consideration:

I. Rules Report – July 2020 (Attachment A)

II. Annual Regulatory Plan-For Ratification by the Board (Attachment B) III. Rule 61H1-27.002- Tolled to address JAPC Concern

• JAPC letter (Attachment C1) • Currently proposed language (Attachment C2) • Revised language in response to JAPC letter (Attachment C3)

IV. HB 1193 – New rule language and rule amendments to address

changes to the statute. Open each for rule development.

• Rule 61H1-29.001 – New Rule (Attachment D1) • Rule 61H1-29.003 – Repeal Rule (Attachment D1) • Rule 61H1-29.005 – Repeal Rule. (Attachment D1) Language

addressed in 61H1-33.003. • Rule 61H1-31.008 – Fee (Attachment D2) • Licensure by Endorsement Application and related forms

(Attachment D3) V. Null and Void Rule Revision

• New Rule for consideration • New Form

ASHLEY MOODY ATTORNEY GENERAL

STATE OF FLORIDA

OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL Administrative Law Bureau Rachelle Munson Assistant Attorney General Administrative Law Bureau PL-01, The Capitol Tallahassee, FL 32399-1050 Phone (850) 414-3300 Fax (850) 922-6425 [email protected] http://www.myfloridalegal.com

BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY RULES REPORT

JULY 2020

1

ATTACHMENT A

Rule Number Rule Title

Date Rule Language Approved by Board

Date Sent to OFARR

Rule Development

Published

Notice Published Adopted Effective

61H1-19.008 Committees. 12/13/19 02/06/20 N/A (Repeal)

02/18/20 Vol.46/No.33

03/25/20

04/14/20

61H1-20.0093 Rules of the Auditor General.

12/13/19 02/06/20 02/18/20 03/04/20 Vol.46/No.44

04/07/20 04/27/20

61H1-21.001 Independence. 6/11/20 06/26/20

61H1-26.005 Address of Record. 12/13/19 02/06/20 02/18/20 03/04/20 Vol.46/No.44

03/10/20 JAPC Corresp

03/19/20 JAPC Response

04/13/20 05/03/20

61H1-27.001 College or University Requirements.

12/13/19 02/06/20 02/18/20 03/04/20 Vol.46/No.44

04/03/20 04/23/20

61H1-27.002

Concentrations in Accounting and Business.

12/13/19 02/06/20 02/18/20 03/04/20 Vol.46/No.44

03/10/20 JAPC Corresp.


06/01/20 JAPC Corresp.

06/02/20 JAPC Response Tolled 06/02/20



Date Sent to OFARR

Rule Development

Published


61H1-29.002 Temporay License. 12/13/19 02/06/20 02/18/20 03/04/20 Vol.46/No.44

03/10/20 JAPC Corresp


04/13/20 04/29/20

61H1-29.003 Experience for Licensure by Endorsement.

06/15/20

61H1-31.002 Examination and Reexamination Fees.

12/13/19 02/06/20 02/18/20 03/04/20 Vol.46/No.44

04/03/20 04/23/20

61H1-31.014 Continuing Education Course Approval Fees.

06/15/20

61H1-33.001 Certified Public Accountants Required to Comply with this Chapter.

06/15/20

61H1-33.002 Organization and Administration.

06/15/20

61H1-33.003 Continuing Professional Education.

6/11/20 06/26/20

61H1-33.0031 Continuing Professional Education/Ethics.

06/15/20

61H1-33.0032 Board Approval of CPA Ethics Continuing Education by Providers.

06/15/20

BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY RULES REPORT

JULY 2020

3



Date Sent to OFARR

Rule Development

Published


61H1-33.0033 Obligations of CPA Ethics Course Continuing Education Providers.

06/15/20

61H1-33.0034 Evalaution of CPA Ethics Course Providers.

06/15/20

61H1-33.00341 Duration of CPA Ethics Course Provider Status.

06/15/20

61H1-33.00342 CPA Ethics Courses-Standards for Approval of Courses.

06/15/20

61H1-33.0035 Continuing Professional Education/ Governmental Auditing.

06/15/20

61H1-33.006 Inactive or Delinquent Florida Certified Public Accountants Who Desire to Become Active Licensees.

06/15/20

61H1-33.0065 Exemption from Renewal Requirements for Spouses of Members of the Armed Forces of the United States.

06/15/20



Date Sent to OFARR

Rule Development

Published


61H1ER20-5

Continuing Professional Education.

05/15/20 05/22/20 N/A 05/26/20 Vol.46/No.102

N/A 05/22/20

Annual Regulatory Plan-For Ratification by the Board

Attachment C2

61H1-27.002 Concentrations in Accounting and Business.

(1) No Change.

(2) For purposes of section 473.308, F.S., if application for licensure is made after August 1, 1983, an applicant must have at

least 150 semester hours or 225 quarter hours of college education, including a baccalaureate degree or higher conferred by an

accredited college or university with a major in accounting, or its equivalent. The applicant’s total education program shall include a

concentration in accounting and business as follows:

(a) 30 semester or 45 quarter hours in accounting education at the upper division level which shall include coverage of auditing,

cost and managerial accounting, financial accounting, and taxation. Of these courses, the applicant must complete 3 semester hours

or 4 quarter hours of financial accounting and 3 semester hours or 4 quarter hours of taxation based upon USA accounting standards.

Not more than 3 semester or 4 quarter hours may be internship programs which may be applied to the 30 semester or 45 quarter

hours in accounting (internship courses must be taken in conjunction with other traditional coursework at an institution and must

appear on the transcript). Further, any remaining internship credit if otherwise acceptable would be applied to the general business

requirement;

(b) 36 semester or 54 quarter hours in general business education which shall include not less than the equivalent of 3 semester

or 4 quarter hours in business law courses based upon USA laws. Vocational and clerical type courses will not count either toward

the accounting requirement set forth in subsection 61H1-27.002(2), F.A.C., or this general business education requirement.

Specialized industry courses will be acceptable as general business courses but not as accounting courses unless as defined in

subsection 61H1-27.002(2), F.A.C., and they have an accounting prefix, further such courses in order to qualify must be certified by

the chairman of the school or college’s accounting department as qualifying for general business credit. Written or oral

communication courses will qualify for the general business requirement if they have a business or accounting prefix or if they are

reflected in the catalog in the school or college as relating directly to the school or college’s business or accounting requirements. A

maximum of 9 semester hours (13 quarter hours) of computer courses and 6 upper division semester hours (8 quarter hours) of

statistics courses will be accepted for purposes of meeting the general business requirement; and

(c) At least 3 of the required hours in each of the areas of business law, taxation, and financial accounting are to have been

based upon United States of America law or accounting standards.

(3) To be eligible to take the licensure examination, an applicant shall have completed 120 semester or 180 quarter hours as

follows:



or 4 quarter hours of financial accounting and 3 semester hours or 4 quarter hours of taxation based upon USA accounting standards.

Not more than 3 semester or 4 quarter hours may be internship programs which may be applied to the 24 semester or 36 quarter

hours in accounting (internship courses must be taken in conjunction with other traditional coursework at an institution and must

appear on the transcript). Further, any remaining internship credit if otherwise acceptable would be applied to the general business

requirement;


or 4 quarter hours in business law courses based upon USA laws. Vocational and clerical type courses will not count either toward

the accounting requirement set forth in subsection 61H1-27.002(2), F.A.C., or this general business education requirement.

Specialized industry courses will be acceptable as general business courses but not as accounting courses unless as defined in

subsection 61H1-27.002(2), F.A.C., and they have an accounting prefix; further such courses in order to qualify must be certified by

the chairman of the school or college’s accounting department as qualifying for general business credit. Written or oral

communication courses will qualify for the general business requirement if they have a business or accounting prefix or if they are

reflected in the catalog in the school or college as relating directly to the school or college’s business or accounting requirements. A

maximum of 9 semester hours (13 quarter hours) of computer courses and 6 upper division semester hours (8 quarter hours) of

statistics courses will be accepted for purposes of meeting the general business requirement; and



(4) Through (8) No Change.

Rulemaking Authority 473.304, 473.306(3), 473.308(3) FS. Law Implemented 473.306(2), (3), 473.308(3), (8) FS. History–New 12-4-79,

Amended 2-3-81, 8-1-83, 3-21-84, 6-10-84, 6-5-85, 10-28-85, Formerly 21A-27.02, Amended 5-22-88, 3-21-89, 5-20-91, 12-2-92, Formerly 21A-

27.002, Amended 11-2-95, 11-3-97, 1-31-05, 5-24-07, 11-30-08, 12-21-09, 12-2-14, 7-11-16, 2-13-18, 7-29-18,_________________________.

Attachment C3

61H1-27.002 Concentrations in Accounting and Business.

(1) No Change.

(2) For purposes of section 473.308, F.S., if application for licensure is made after August 1, 1983, an applicant must have at

least 150 semester hours or 225 quarter hours of college education, including a baccalaureate degree or higher conferred by an

accredited college or university with a major in accounting, or its equivalent. The applicant’s total education program shall include a

concentration in accounting and business as follows:



or 4 quarter hours of financial accounting based upon Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and 3 semester hours or 4

quarter hours of taxation for accounting standards based upon United States federal and state laws. Not more than 3 semester or 4

quarter hours may be internship programs which may be applied to the 30 semester or 45 quarter hours in accounting (internship

courses must be taken in conjunction with other traditional coursework at an institution and must appear on the transcript). Further,

any remaining internship credit if otherwise acceptable would be applied to the general business requirement;


or 4 quarter hours in business law courses based upon United States federal and state laws. Vocational and clerical type courses will

not count either toward the accounting requirement set forth in subsection 61H1-27.002(2), F.A.C., or this general business

education requirement. Specialized industry courses will be acceptable as general business courses but not as accounting courses

unless as defined in subsection 61H1-27.002(2), F.A.C., and they have an accounting prefix, further such courses in order to qualify

must be certified by the chairman of the school or college’s accounting department as qualifying for general business credit. Written

or oral communication courses will qualify for the general business requirement if they have a business or accounting prefix or if

they are reflected in the catalog in the school or college as relating directly to the school or college’s business or accounting

requirements. A maximum of 9 semester hours (13 quarter hours) of computer courses and 6 upper division semester hours (8

quarter hours) of statistics courses will be accepted for purposes of meeting the general business requirement; and



(3) To be eligible to take the licensure examination, an applicant shall have completed 120 semester or 180 quarter hours as

follows:



or 4 quarter hours of financial accounting based upon Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and 3 semester hours or 4

quarter hours of taxation for accounting standards based upon United States federal and state laws. Not more than 3 semester or 4

quarter hours may be internship programs which may be applied to the 24 semester or 36 quarter hours in accounting (internship

courses must be taken in conjunction with other traditional coursework at an institution and must appear on the transcript). Further,

any remaining internship credit if otherwise acceptable would be applied to the general business requirement;


or 4 quarter hours in business law courses based upon United States federal and state laws. Vocational and clerical type courses will

not count either toward the accounting requirement set forth in subsection 61H1-27.002(2), F.A.C., or this general business

education requirement. Specialized industry courses will be acceptable as general business courses but not as accounting courses

unless as defined in subsection 61H1-27.002(2), F.A.C., and they have an accounting prefix; further such courses in order to qualify

must be certified by the chairman of the school or college’s accounting department as qualifying for general business credit. Written

or oral communication courses will qualify for the general business requirement if they have a business or accounting prefix or if

they are reflected in the catalog in the school or college as relating directly to the school or college’s business or accounting

requirements. A maximum of 9 semester hours (13 quarter hours) of computer courses and 6 upper division semester hours (8

quarter hours) of statistics courses will be accepted for purposes of meeting the general business requirement; and



(4) Through (8) No Change.

Rulemaking Authority 473.304, 473.306(3), 473.308(3) FS. Law Implemented 473.306(2), (3), 473.308(3), (8) FS. History–New 12-4-79,

Amended 2-3-81, 8-1-83, 3-21-84, 6-10-84, 6-5-85, 10-28-85, Formerly 21A-27.02, Amended 5-22-88, 3-21-89, 5-20-91, 12-2-92, Formerly 21A-

27.002, Amended 11-2-95, 11-3-97, 1-31-05, 5-24-07, 11-30-08, 12-21-09, 12-2-14, 7-11-16, 2-13-18, 7-29-18,_________________________.

HB 1193 – Drafted language for a new rule recommendation - 61H1-29.001 and will propose repeal of 61H1-29.003

Null and Void Rule Revision

Remarks from Executive Director

Update from Board Members serving on NASBA Committees

Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants

NASBA

Public Comments

Old Business

Other Business

Documents

Halsey Beshears, Secretary Ron DeSantis, Governor€¦ · 10-K that AF Ocean filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("Commission") on April 14, 2016. c. In its Form 10-K,