Washington explained: Infrastructure, tax reform, and more

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In this special episode of PwC’s accounting podcast, Roz Brooks, PwC’s US Public Policy Leader, is back to discuss the latest in Washington—focusing on the current bipartisan infrastructure bill and budget reconciliation working its way through Congress, as well as other policy developments CFOs will want to know about.

Topics include:

• 2:29 - Infrastructure and budget reconciliation. As we head into the last quarter of 2021, the House and Senate are negotiating final versions of the bipartisan infrastructure bill and budget reconciliation. Roz talks through the standoffs and what she thinks is likely to happen. 
• 22:03 - Tax reform. What are the latest tax rates on the table? Roz gives an overview of some of the possible changes and reforms being discussed on Capitol Hill. 
• 28:42 - Foreign policy and relations. Whether it’s travel, the supply chain, vaccine availability, or other current events, the global equilibrium has undergone significant changes in recent years. Roz gives her perspective on what Biden and the US have planned. 
• 39:22 - Policy and financial markets. Roz highlights recent and expected changes at the PCAOB, the SEC’s views on ESG disclosures, and rulemaking with respect to foreign companies listed on US exchanges.
• 42:51 - Final thoughts. After the inauguration, Roz gave us her thoughts on the topic of bipartisanship. We checked in with her again in May. Heather asks her if anything’s changed since then. 

Want to hear more? Check out some of Roz’s past podcasts:

• Forecast 2021: What to expect from the new administration
• Forecast 2021: Advice for CFOs on the latest from Washington

And listen to our podcast from last week to hear more about how companies are dealing with current events: COVID-19: How looking back will help business move forward.

Roz Brooks is PwC's US Public Policy Leader. Roz is responsible for ensuring PwC has a voice in important debates at the nexus of business and government and helping the firm successfully execute its business strategy. Roz leads PwC’s engagement with Congress, the White House, regulatory agencies, state and local governments, and organizations including trade associations, think tanks, and NGOs.

Heather Horn is a Deputy Chief Accountant in PwC’s National Office and leader of the thought leadership group, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series, as well as periodic webcasts for the power and utilities industry. With nearly 30 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to [email protected].