#Voluntary disclosure program

[taxexpertblog]

2023 September Tax News

Table of Contents Coming clean with the tax authorities – the Voluntary Disclosure Program (September 2023) September 27, 2023 The Canadian tax system is a “self-assessing system” which relies heavily on the voluntary co-operation of taxpayers. Canadians are expected (in fact, in most cases, required) to complete and file a tax return each spring, reporting income from all sources, calculating…

[nationallawreview]

DOJ Announces Changes to Guidance on Corporate Compliance Programs, Updates on Whistleblower Program

In an address this week to the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Department of Justice’s (“DOJ”) Criminal Division, highlighted several updates relevant to corporate compliance programs, including the DOJ’s new whistleblower programs and incentives. Sufficient Compliance: Updated Areas to Consider The Evaluation of…

[contentment-of-cats]

New fic bit: Long Live the Empire

Leia looks out at the massed Imperial fleet, the remains of the Fifth Fleet and a major victory to obtain their surrender. The Republic forces are massed in a show of strength, the coverage by holonews blanketing the media. Grand Admiral Danner Ashbrough brought 500 ISD and smaller ships with him out of the 5,000 he once commanded. He and the senior officers' agreed to stand trial for war crimes, and those junior officers and enlisted with him would enter reorientation and amnesty programs. For now, the meeting will seal the agreement and handle the nuts and bolts. Ashbrough is pleasant, if oddly distant.

"I'm aware not everyone came with you, Grand Admiral." Leia studies the man's face. Most officers at flag rank have sabacc faces that rivals a duracrete wall for lack of expression.

"It is good that you are aware." The man could be standing in the Allisandre's ballroom, holding a glass of Chandrilan sparkle-wine. "I made this voluntary. Those who wished to leave were dispersed to other fleets."

"The Third, Seventh, and Eleventh?" Three thorns in the foot of the Republic with an estimated strength of 10,000 ISD class, at least four Supers, and thousands of smaller ships. "We'd appreciate some help with that. Mitigate your crimes with helpful information."

A small, polite smile. "We don't speak to them often, but they agreed to take in the die-hards."

Leia reaches out with the Force and encounters something like a shield around the man's mind. Luke, in her field of vision, looks puzzled and shakes his head. A text appeares on her datapad.

It's as if every mind on those ships is Jedi-proofed. Music, mathematics, even building model landspeeders.

"Grand Admiral Faro heads the Eleventh, I presume, with Marinth as Grand Admiral of the Seventh's remains." Now to pry open a vault. "I have intel that an officer named Pyrondi has the Third."

Something itches at the back of her mind and she glances at the battle computer to her left. All the Imps have their weapons powered down, hyperdrives offline, as agreed.

"Indeed?" Left unsaid that she was a protege of Grand Admiral Thrawn - like Rear Admiral Hammerly, Commodore Barlin, and others who formed a nucleus of the Trident Fleet. "Thrawn was said to have sent a core of officers with Faro and when she transferred."

"There's nothing on her. Her entire file is redacted. Not even a date of birth or a Homeworld."

"I met her briefly, once, at the Ascension Week games when I was still a Rear Admiral. I am afraid she did not make any disclosures to me. However, you may find the reasons in the Archives of the Senate, under seal."

They can't access and he doesn't need to know that. A COMPNOR general's dying act was to make the archives for every agency down to vermin control inaccessible. Threepio's estimate was that it would take at least a century to slice, and that would be with top slicing droids working nonstop. It could easily take one thousand years as they did not know how many placements the lock had.

"There are things that not even Grand Admirals can unlock. However, I was alive when the reason for the redaction happened. The heart of it was your friend Saw Gerrera." That small smile again. "Pyrondi will have to answer for herself."

"Saw Gerrera was nobody's friend."

"He was, long ago, an ally of your parents." A fleeting smile, more of a quirk of the lips. "I can tell you that if he is alive, he will very much wish not to be if Pyrondi finds him."

"He's dead."

"So you say. However, Pyrondi will look for him until she turns up his body or his bones. I was there to evacuate the world he destroyed so completely that not even decay will come to the dead. The body count of Jegsziv totaled an estimated two billion with less than half a million survivors." That smile again, wider. Leia wishes she could see his eyes under the bill of his kepi. "Rhydonium gas released from an well on the sea floor - an act of terrorism and sabotage that killed half a world in their beds and choked the rest to death on their own blood."

"I've never heard of it." The itch is stronger, almost a burning. A glance at Luke shows he can feel something, too. "Where is it located?"

"Well, secrets take time to uncover, but the truth always comes out. I do hope that you will meet her one day. Until that day and after it - long may she serve, and long live the Empire."

The white flash is soundless, but the shock wave and the onslaught of molten durasteel impacts the Republic ships in seconds. The Imperials caused their cores to go critical, igniting hundreds of mini novas, obliterating most of the Republic fleet in the space of a blink and a breath.

[mariacallous]

The Biden administration is asking the world’s largest technology companies to publicly commit to tightening the digital security of their software and cloud services.

The voluntary pledge, first reported by WIRED, represents the latest effort by the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to build support for its Secure by Design initiative, which encourages tech vendors to prioritize cybersecurity while developing and configuring their products.

By signing the pledge, companies promise to make a “good-faith effort” to implement seven critical cybersecurity improvements, ranging from soliciting reports of vulnerabilities in their products to expanding the use of multi-factor authentication, a technology that adds an extra login step to the traditional password.

The pledge—which CISA plans to announce at the RSA cybersecurity conference in San Francisco next week—poses a major test for CISA, which last week marked the one-year anniversary of its Secure by Design campaign. The initiative is a top priority of CISA’s leadership, but it has produced mixed results, with some companies continuing to flout its urgent advice. The tech industry’s reaction to the pledge—and especially the number of software giants that sign it—will serve as a litmus test for how the private sector views CISA’s continuing push for increased corporate investment in cybersecurity.

“We're really excited about the companies that are on board,” Eric Goldstein, CISA’s executive assistant director for cybersecurity, tells WIRED. He declined to say how many vendors have already signed the pledge, but he says they include some “really significant” players in the tech industry.

WIRED asked more than three dozen of the biggest software companies whether they had signed or planned to sign the pledge. Only a handful responded. Login technology provider Okta said it had signed, while security vendor BlackBerry said it was considering doing so. Notably, software giants Amazon, Google, and Microsoft did not say whether they were signing.

“CISA says they have 50 companies that are signing and giving quotations to put on the website,” says a tech industry official familiar with the matter, who requested anonymity to speak candidly. “I don’t know any company that has signed.”

The seven goals laid out in the pledge represent security practices that experts say would dramatically improve companies’ cyberdefenses and make it easier for customers to safely use their products.

The goals include significantly increasing users’ use of multi-factor authentication, including by automatically enabling it or prodding users to activate it; eliminating default passwords, including by requiring users to choose strong passwords at product setup; and making it easier for customers to understand hacks of products they use, including by letting them review logs of suspicious network activity for free.

Companies signing the pledge would also commit to hardening their products against entire classes of vulnerabilities, such as by using memory-safe programming languages that completely block memory-based attacks; fostering better software patching, including by making patching easier and automating it when possible; creating vulnerability disclosure programs that encourage users to find and report product flaws; and publishing timely alerts about major new vulnerabilities, as well as including detailed information in all new vulnerability alerts.

The pledge offers examples of how companies can meet the goals, although it notes that companies “have the discretion to decide how best” to do so. The document also emphasizes the importance of companies publicly demonstrating “measurable progress” on their goals, as well as documenting their techniques “​​so that others can learn.”

CISA developed the pledge in consultation with tech companies, seeking to understand what would be feasible for them while also meeting the agency’s goals, according to Goldstein. That meant making sure the commitments were feasible for companies of all sizes, not just Silicon Valley giants.

The agency originally tried using its Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative to prod companies into signing the pledge, according to the tech industry official, but that backfired when companies questioned the use of an operational cyberdefense collaboration group for “a policy and legal issue,” the industry official says.

“Industry expressed frustration about trying to use the JCDC to obtain pledges,” the official says, and CISA “wisely pulled back on that effort.”

CISA then held discussions with companies through the Information Technology Sector Coordinating Council and tweaked the pledge based on their feedback. Originally, the pledge contained more than seven goals, and CISA wanted signatories to commit to “firm metrics” for showing progress, according to the industry official. In the end, this person says, CISA removed several goals and “broadened the language” about measuring progress.

John Miller, senior vice president of policy, trust, data, and technology at the Information Technology Industry Council, a major industry trade group, says that change was smart, because concrete progress metrics—like the number of users using multi-factor authentication—could be “easily misconstrued.”

Goldstein says the number of pledge signatories is “exceeding my expectations about where we’d be” at this point. The industry official says they’re not aware of any company that has definitively refused to sign the pledge, in part because vendors want to “keep open the option of signing on” after CISA’s launch event at RSA. “Everyone’s in a kind of wait-and-see mode.”

Legal liability is a top concern for potential signatory companies. “If there ends up being, inevitably, some type of security incident,” Miller says, “anything [a] company has said publicly could be used in lawsuits.”

That said, Miller predicts that some global companies facing strict new European security requirements will sign the US pledge to “get that credit” for something they already have to do.

CISA’s Secure by Design campaign is the centerpiece of the Biden administration’s ambitious plan to shift the burden of cybersecurity from users to vendors, a core theme of the administration’s National Cybersecurity Strategy. The push for corporate cyber responsibility follows years of disruptive supply-chain attacks on critical software makers like Microsoft, SolarWinds, Kaseya, and Change Healthcare, as well as a mounting list of widespread software vulnerabilities that have powered ransomware attacks on schools, hospitals, and other essential services. White House officials say the pattern of costly and often preventable breaches demonstrates the need for increased corporate accountability.

The Biden administration is using the federal government’s contracting power to set new minimum security standards for the software that agencies buy, with the goal of modeling responsible behavior for the entire industry. White House officials are also studying proposals to make all vendors, not just federal contractors, liable for security failures, but that effort faces an uphill battle in Congress.

With no authority to require better cybersecurity for the entire software industry, the White House has tasked CISA with prodding companies to commit to voluntary improvements. That effort began last April with the publication of specific recommendations for incorporating cybersecurity into the product design, development, and configuration process. CISA consulted with the tech industry and the security research community on refinements to that document and released an updated version last October. At around the same time, CISA announced that it had obtained Secure by Design commitments from six major K-12 educational technology vendors. That move, while limited to one industry, signaled CISA’s clear desire to convert its guidance into public corporate pledges.

“It has long been our goal … to move from just the white papers and the guidance to get companies to say, ‘Yes, we agree, and here’s what we're doing,’” Goldstein says. “The pledge really is that concrete manifestation of the guidance that we’ve been developing for a year.”

But the efficacy of the voluntary pledge remains to be seen. “Pledging companies will self-assess and self-report,” says Katie Moussouris, CEO and founder of Luta Security, “so only time will tell if they’ve effectively applied the measures and if the pledge proved to be an effective accountability mechanism.”

Miller says he expects the pledge to keep companies accountable because of the potential legal consequences of neglecting promised improvements. In the meantime, government officials are counting on customers to pressure vendors to both sign and abide by the pledge.

“Right now, we see the demand for safe and secure products to really be significant,” Goldstein says. “We think that … customer demand will drive that progress for us.”

[iotexpo]

Industry trend｜US IoT security label officially takes effect!

On September 9, the U.S. IoT Security Labeling Program officially came into effect.

The regulation aims to improve the privacy security of consumer IoT devices, enhance consumer confidence in the security of IoT devices, and provide consumers with more transparent product safety information. Previously, the FCC issued the "IoT Cybersecurity Labeling Report and Order" (Order) on March 15, 2024, which established the framework of the consumer IoT labeling program.

Image source: FCC

According to public disclosure, the main features of the program include:

Wireless consumer IoT products that meet the program's cybersecurity standards will display labels including the "U.S. Cyber Trust Mark" to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions, distinguish trustworthy products on the market, and incentivize manufacturers to meet higher cybersecurity standards.

The label will be accompanied by a QR code that consumers can scan to get easy-to-understand details about the product's security, such as how long the product is supported and whether software patches and security updates are automatic.

Image source: FCC

The voluntary program will rely on a public-private partnership, with the FCC providing oversight and approved third-party label stewards managing activities such as evaluating product applications, authorizing the use of labels, and consumer education.

Compliance testing will be handled by accredited laboratories.

Examples of eligible products may include home security cameras, voice-activated shopping devices, internet-connected appliances, fitness trackers, garage door openers, and baby monitors.

The establishment of the U.S. IoT Security Label and the official activation of the U.S. Cybersecurity Trust Mark are expected to significantly increase the transparency and security of IoT devices. As these rules take effect, all interested parties must become familiar with the new requirements and ensure compliance. The FCC's commitment to cybersecurity through this program marks a key step toward ensuring that IoT devices are protected from growing cyber threats.

What is the impact of the implementation of the US IoT security labeling program?

The industry believes that for the US IoT security labeling program, it is necessary to focus on wireless, Internet-connected consumer IoT products, including IoT devices and other components required for the network, such as network/gateway hardware, including application software and backend. It is worth noting that the FCC may expand the types and scope of IoT products in the future.

In addition, the FCC has also proposed a "National Security Declaration" rule for the IoT labeling program, which puts forward special requirements for devices involving national security. If the hardware, software or data in the device is related to certain high-risk countries (such as China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia and Venezuela), the manufacturer needs to disclose and ensure that its products do not contain any hidden vulnerabilities from these countries, and the data collected by the product will not be stored in these countries, nor will it be remotely controlled by servers in these countries.

The introduction of this rule may have a certain impact on overseas companies, especially those that export equipment to the United States. Manufacturers are required to pay more attention to the network security design of products and incorporate this plan requirements into product security design in advance, such as paying special attention to the standard content of NIST.

Consumers will also pay more attention to the safety performance of products when making purchasing decisions. As IoT devices become more prevalent and cyber threats increase, the legislation is seen as an important milestone in strengthening consumer privacy protections and improving device security.

Leading manufacturers have expressed support

Although the White House and FCC have made it clear that manufacturers and retailers can voluntarily choose to join the US Cybersecurity Labeling Program, at the same time as the program was released, leading manufacturers related to the home Internet of Things have basically announced their support.

According to a White House press release, the participating organizations on the day of the press conference included Amazon, Best Buy, Carnegie Mellon University, CyLab, Cisco, CSA, Consumer Reports, Consumer Technology Association, Google, Infineon, Information Technology Industry Council, IoXT, Keysight Technologies, LG Electronics USA, Logitech, OpenPolicy, Qorvo, Qualcomm, Samsung Electronics, UL, Yale University and August U.S., covering all links of the entire consumer Internet of Things industry chain, including manufacturers, retail platforms, monitoring and certification agencies, alliance organizations and universities, and are expected to push the program to a "quasi-mandatory" requirement that is widely accepted by the market.

Internationally, the US government will support the FCC to coordinate standards with allies and partners and seek mutual recognition of similar labeling work. For example, the United States has proposed to promote cooperation with the European Union to unify standards and has begun to contact Singapore's cybersecurity labeling program.

In January 2024, Anne Neuberger, the U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor for Cybersecurity and Emerging Technologies, announced that the United States had signed a cooperation agreement with the European Union on a "Joint Roadmap for Consumer Labeling Programs" to promote international mutual recognition of consumer IoT device security labeling programs, opening up the application and recognition of IoT security labeling programs on a larger scale around the world.

Cybersecurity labeling programs in other countries

According to Statista, by 2030, there will be more than 29 billion IoT devices in operation worldwide, which has attracted the attention of governments around the world to the security of smart devices. In addition to the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Germany and other places have introduced cybersecurity labeling programs for IoT products.

European Union

The European Union Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) applies to all digital products that are directly or indirectly connected to another device or network, including hardware, devices, software, applications, etc. The key requirements of CRA include:

Manufacturers must ensure that their products meet cybersecurity requirements throughout their life cycle from design to obsolescence.

Products must be able to receive security updates and effectively handle vulnerabilities for up to 5 years or the product life cycle (whichever is shorter).

Manufacturers need to provide clear product information and instructions to ensure that users can safely install, operate and use the product.

Manufacturers are obliged to report to the European Union Cybersecurity Agency (ENISA) within 24 hours of discovering actively exploited vulnerabilities in their products or any incidents that affect product security.

The CRA also provides for the classification of products at different risk levels, and important and critical products will be included in different lists, which will be proposed and updated by the European Commission. These lists will help determine which products require more stringent conformity assessment procedures.

The penalties for violating the CRA regulations can be very severe, including high fines. For example, violations of cybersecurity requirements and manufacturer obligations may be subject to fines of up to €15 million or 2.5% of global annual turnover in the previous fiscal year, whichever is higher.

The CRA is expected to take effect in the second half of 2024, and manufacturers will need to ensure that their products comply with the regulations and enter the EU market by 2027.

In addition, the EU's "Common Standard Cybersecurity Certification Scheme" launched in February this year marks that cybersecurity capabilities have become a key product strength and "market pass" for all digital products in the EU.

United Kingdom

The UK's "Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Act" (PSTI) received royal assent in December 2022 and will officially come into effect on April 29, 2024. Key requirements include:

The use of common default passwords is prohibited.

Manufacturers are required to set up a public contact point for consumers to report security vulnerabilities.

Manufacturers must clearly state to consumers the minimum time frame for security updates.

Companies that violate the provisions of the PSTI Act may face significant penalties, including fines of up to £10 million or 4% of their global turnover, and additional fines of £20,000 per day for continued violations.

The Act applies to all manufacturers, importers and distributors that supply IoT products to UK consumers, requiring them to ensure that their products meet new cybersecurity standards. This includes smart homes/voice assistants, smartphones, webcams, wearable devices, IoT base stations and hubs, home automation devices, smart doorbells and alarm systems, etc.

Singapore

The IoT security labeling scheme launched in Singapore is called the "Cybersecurity Labelling Scheme (CLS)". It was initiated by the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) and is the first cybersecurity standard scheme for smart home devices in the Asia-Pacific region.

The scheme includes four different security levels, distinguished by the number of stars:

Tier 1 – Basic security requirements, which developers can demonstrate through a declaration of conformity.

Tier 2 – In addition to the requirements of Tier 1, it also includes security requirements for the product lifecycle, which can also be demonstrated through the developer's Declaration of Conformity.

Tier 3 – In addition to meeting the requirements of Tier 1 and Tier 2, the developer must perform a software binary analysis of the product by a CLS-approved third-party laboratory (such as UL) to check for known vulnerabilities and common software weaknesses.

Tier 4 – To achieve the highest level, the product must undergo a thorough security assessment by a CLS-approved third-party laboratory, which will verify that the product complies with the requirements of ETSI EN 303 645 and conduct additional (mandatory) penetration testing activities.

Image source: CSA

The validity of the CLS label is related to the security update support period of the device, which can be up to 3 years. The program initially covered Wi-Fi routers and smart home centers because these products are more widely used and security issues have a greater impact on users.

In addition, Singapore has signed a mutual recognition agreement (MoU) with Finland and Germany to mutually recognize the cybersecurity labels issued by each other. This means that consumer IoT products that meet the cybersecurity label requirements of Finland or Germany will also be considered to meet the corresponding level requirements of Singapore's CLS.

Finland

Finland’s IoT cybersecurity labeling program is called “Cybersecurity Label” and is a voluntary labeling program initiated by the National Cybersecurity Center Finland (NCSC-FI) under the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom).

The Cybersecurity Label is mainly aimed at consumer smart devices, such as smart TVs, smart bracelets and home routers. The label is awarded to connected smart devices or services that meet the information security requirements set by Traficom, including secure access control, default settings, transmission and storage of personal data, and secure ecosystem interfaces.

The Cybersecurity Label is based on the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) EN 303 645 standard, which provides baseline requirements for information security requirements for consumer IoT devices.

Germany

Germany’s IoT cybersecurity labeling program is called “IT-Security Label” and is implemented by the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI). It is also based on the ETSI EN 303 645 standard, a European standard for information security requirements for consumer IoT devices.

The labeling program requires product suppliers to make self-declarations and does not arrange for third-party certification, which may raise concerns about the authenticity of security information. However, the German market supervision department will check the security feature information declared by the manufacturer of the IoT product after the product is launched to ensure that the information on the label is consistent with the actual situation of the product. If the inspection finds discrepancies, the label will be revoked and the brand and product image will be damaged, which largely avoids the risk of manufacturer fraud.

China IoT Security Label Action Plan Officially Released

On April 18-19, 2024, the 2024 Spark Ecological Conference hosted by the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology was successfully held in Xiamen. At the meeting, the "China IoT Security Label Action Plan" was officially released.

The IoT Security Label Action Plan is a set of action plans proposed to address the pain points of cybersecurity attacks faced by consumer-grade IoT devices in my country, and to assign unique specific security labels to devices that meet certain cybersecurity certification standards, thereby ensuring that IoT devices are safe when accessing the network.

The action plan includes: proposing a new IoT security label system architecture, establishing a security label management mechanism, building a security label laboratory, developing a security label public service platform, developing a series of security label-related standards, and creating a batch of IoT security label application demonstrations, etc., including a complete IoT security label certification system.

As the world's largest exporter of consumer electronics products, my country's launch of the IoT security label program will be of great significance to protecting my country's IoT product export trade, cross-border data security, and national network security.

This paper is from Ulink Media, Shenzhen, China, the organizer of IOTE EXPO (IoT Expo in China)

[recentlyheardcom]

Should you File, and then Opt Out?

Author Lance Wallach Published November 23, 2011 Word count 865 February 8, 2011, the IRS 2011 Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Initiative (OVDI) program is a welcome but conditional amnesty allowing taxpayers with foreign accounts to come clean and get into compliance with the IRS. The program runs through Sept. 9, 2011. There’s been discussion of “opting out” of the program to take your chances…

[awsomebloggersblog]

Job Opening For Certified Nursing Assistant/CNA Part Time 3p-11p Intuitive Health Services Job title: Certified Nursing Assistant/CNA Part Time 3p-11p Job description: Certified Nursing Assistant/CNA Overnight 3p-11p Part Time + Shift Differentials!Walk-Ins welcomed. Maplewood at Mayflower Nursing & Rehab Center 579 Buck Island Rd, West Yarmouth, MAThe starting rate for this position is $25 with shift differentials. The rate will depend on shift, day of the week, location, experience, and prior tenure with Maplewood/Inspir Carnegie Hill.Want to know what makes our employees eager about going to work every day? The people we serve. Being apart of Maplewood requires passion and a desire to help others. Each employee has the ability to touch the hearts of all our seniors and be a part of something bigger than themselves. It’s not just a job. It’s an extraordinary life.Maplewood Senior Living is a state-of-the-art, forward-thinking senior living provider. We offer a home-like, luxury environment for our residents, allowing them to live “the good life” in a safe environment. As an associate of Maplewood Senior Living, you will have the ability to make a profound difference in the lives of seniors each and every day. As we continue to grow, we are seeking Certified Nursing Assistants to become part of our family. We invite you to take your first step toward a rewarding career with us!What we offer Competitive wages Flexible shifts Paid training & uniforms Growth opportunities Bonus & incentive programs Competitive Benefits Package: including medical, dental, vision, 401K, company paid time-off, life insurance policy, insurance deductibles and voluntary Aflac insurance for our full-time employees Primary Responsibilities Assisting residents with all care needs including bathing, dressing, continence care, dining and mobility support Engaging residents through interaction and conversation, as well as programs and activities Working hand in hand with the nursing team to ensure resident care needs are met Maintaining a clean, tidy, and safe work environment and assisting residents by maintaining resident rooms Education/Experience/Licensure/Certification Current Massachusetts Nurse’s Aide Registration Experience and passion in working with seniors Able to perform tasks which may be physically demanding such as pushing, bending and lifting up to 50 lbs. Ability to maintain positive working relationships with residents, their families, peers and other staff members In good physical and emotional health and free of communicable diseases Licenses & Certifications Required Certified Nursing Assis. Behaviors Preferred Dedicated: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity Detail Oriented: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well Team Player: Works well as a member of a group Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with DisabilitiesThe contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c) Apply for the job Certified Nursing Assistant/CNA Part Time 3p-11p

At Intuitive Health Services, our goal is to make healthcare better for everyone. We help hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare places find the right doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers. For over 15 years, we have been doing this important job. We work with places like state hospitals and correctional facilities to make sure they have the best people to take care of patients. We don’t just connect people with jobs; we also support them throughout their journey. We help with things like improving resumes, preparing for interviews, and finding the job that fits best. We work in over 50 different locations and have over 900 professionals who trust us to help them. If you are looking for a job in healthcare, we are here to guide you. If you are a healthcare facility needing to hire someone, we can find the best person for you. Our team is always ready to help, and we believe that by working together, we can make healthcare stronger and better for everyone. If you need to contact us, you can find us at: Address: 520 West Lacey Blvd, Hanford, CA 93230 Email: jobs@intuitivehealthservices.com Phone:+1 (805) 703-3729 We’re here to help you with all your healthcare staffing needs! https://intuitivehealthservices.com/register

[anitacampbell-blog]

IRS Reopens Voluntary Disclosure Program for Businesses with Problematic Employee Retention Credit Claims

IRS Reopens Voluntary Disclosure Program for Businesses with Problematic Employee Retention Credit Claims

The Voluntary Disclosure Program allows businesses to rectify Employee Retention Tax Credit errors to avoid future audits, penalties, and interest.

Read more: https://smallbiztrends.com/irs-reopens-voluntary-disclosure-program-employee-retention-tax-credit-claims/

[cpapartners]

Businesses with dubious ERC claims have another chance with the IRS

The IRS said Thursday it will reopen its voluntary disclosure program to allow businesses to correct questionable claims for the pandemic-era employee retention credit.

[argalicarbon]

Strengthening the Voluntary Carbon Market And Solutions for Transparency, Verification, and Market Stability

Speaking to Shahryar Oveissi , it is evident that the voluntary carbon market is an essential mechanism for mitigating climate change since entities are able to fund projects that can either mitigate emissions of greenhouse gases or absorb emissions. However, much is still left to be desired here, and this is owing to the following major setbacks of the program: Reliability and disclosure concerns exist because of the differences and questionable practices that may fall under the greenwash category at best. Concerns about quality and verification show that not every project reduces emissions or offsets carbon, and thus there is a need to say that standards must be tight. Rigidity in price has problems associated with market volatility, where the price of carbon offsets keeps changing, hence destabilizing the funding of the carbon offset projects. Overcoming these issues by means of increasing transparency, implementing high-quality standards with regard to the services offered, and ensuring market stabilization is crucial for the effectiveness of the market.

[fariscpa]

In this episode, we dive into the CRA's Voluntary Disclosure Program. Voluntary Disclosure - A Second Chance to get rid of Tax Debt (youtube.com)

[taxdunia]

The Ultimate Checklist for a Smooth ITR Filing in 2024

Filing your income tax return (ITR) is a crucial financial responsibility that every individual and business owner must fulfill. It not only ensures compliance with the law but also allows you to claim eligible tax deductions, credits, and refunds. By filing your ITR on time and accurately, you can maximize your tax savings and maintain a good standing with the tax authorities.

Failing to file your ITR can result in hefty penalties, interest charges, and even legal consequences. Additionally, a well-documented tax history can be beneficial when applying for loans, mortgages, or other financial services. It demonstrates your financial responsibility and can improve your creditworthiness.

Moreover, the information provided in your ITR is used by the government to determine the country's overall tax revenue and plan for public spending and welfare programs. By fulfilling your tax obligations, you contribute to the development and well-being of your community and the nation as a whole. Timely and accurate ITR filing is a civic duty that every taxpayer should take seriously.

Key changes in the ITR filing process for 2024

As the new tax year approaches, it's essential to be aware of the latest changes and updates in the Income Tax Return Filing Service in India process. In 2024, there are several significant changes that taxpayers should be mindful of to ensure a smooth and efficient filing experience.

One of the notable changes is the introduction of a new ITR form, Form ITR-U, which is designed for individuals with undisclosed foreign assets or income. This form aims to encourage voluntary disclosure and provides an opportunity for taxpayers to regularize their tax affairs without facing severe penalties.

Another key change is the increased emphasis on digital filing and the use of electronic signatures. The tax authorities are actively encouraging taxpayers to file their ITRs online, which not only streamlines the process but also reduces the risk of errors and delays. Additionally, the acceptance of electronic signatures has made the filing process more convenient and secure for taxpayers.

Furthermore, the tax authorities have introduced new tax deductions and exemptions, such as the increased standard deduction limit and the introduction of tax benefits for investments in green energy projects. Staying informed about these changes will help you maximize your tax savings and ensure that you claim all the eligible deductions and credits.

Gathering necessary documents for ITR filing

Preparing for ITR filing begins with gathering all the necessary documents and information. This step is crucial as it lays the foundation for a smooth and accurate filing process. Neglecting to collect the required documents can lead to delays, errors, and potential issues with the tax authorities.

The first step is to gather your income-related documents, such as salary slips, Form 16 (if you're an employee), interest statements from banks, and any other sources of income. These documents will provide the necessary information to accurately report your total income and claim the appropriate deductions.

Next, you'll need to gather documents related to your investments and expenses. This includes investment statements, receipts for medical expenses, rent payments, and any other eligible deductions or tax-saving instruments. Keeping these documents organized and easily accessible will streamline the filing process and ensure that you don't miss out on any potential tax savings.

Additionally, if you have any foreign assets or income, you'll need to gather the relevant documents, such as bank statements, investment reports, and any other information related to your overseas financial activities. Proper documentation is essential, especially with the introduction of the new ITR-U form for disclosing foreign assets.

Understanding different ITR forms and selecting the right one

The Indian tax system offers a variety of ITR forms, each designed to cater to the specific needs and circumstances of different taxpayers. Selecting the appropriate ITR form is crucial to ensure that you file your return accurately and avoid any potential issues with the tax authorities.

The most common ITR forms are: - ITR-1 (Sahaj): For individuals with a single source of income, such as salary, interest, and agricultural income. - ITR-2: For individuals with multiple sources of income, including capital gains, rental income, and foreign assets. - ITR-3: For individuals who have income from business or profession. - ITR-4 (Sugam): For individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) with income from business and profession. - ITR-5: For partnership firms, limited liability partnerships (LLPs), and other entities. - ITR-6: For companies. - ITR-7: For trusts, political parties, and other specified entities.

Carefully review your income sources, financial activities, and personal circumstances to determine the appropriate ITR form for your situation. Selecting the wrong form can lead to processing delays, additional scrutiny from the tax authorities, and potential penalties.

If you're unsure about which form to use, it's advisable to consult with a tax professional or utilize online tools and resources provided by the tax authorities. They can guide you through the process and ensure that you file the correct ITR form to avoid any complications.

Step-by-step guide to filing your ITR

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents and selected the appropriate ITR form, it's time to start the filing process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process smoothly:

Register or log in to the e-filing portal: Visit the official e-filing website (incometax.gov.in) and either register for a new account or log in to your existing one. Ensure that your personal and contact information is up-to-date and accurate.

Select the appropriate ITR form: Based on your income sources and financial activities, choose the ITR form that best suits your situation. Double-check the form to ensure that you have selected the correct one.

Fill out the ITR form: Carefully input all the relevant information, such as your personal details, income sources, deductions, and tax payments. Make sure to cross-check the data to avoid any errors or discrepancies.

Attach the required documents: Upload all the necessary documents, such as Form 16, investment statements, and expense receipts, to support the information provided in the ITR form.

Calculate your tax liability: Review the tax calculations and ensure that you have paid the correct amount of tax. If you have overpaid, you can claim a refund, and if you have underpaid, you'll need to make the additional payment.

Review and verify the ITR form: Thoroughly review the ITR form to ensure that all the information is accurate and complete. Double-check the calculations and the attachments before proceeding to the next step.

E-verify the ITR form: Once you're satisfied with the information, e-verify the ITR form using one of the available methods, such as Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or digital signature. This step is crucial to complete the filing process.

Keep records: Maintain a copy of the filed ITR form and all the supporting documents for future reference and in case of any queries from the tax authorities.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure a smooth and efficient ITR filing process in 2024. Remember to stay organized, pay attention to details, and seek professional assistance if you encounter any complexities or uncertainties.

Common mistakes to avoid during ITR filing

While the ITR Return Filling Service process may seem straightforward, there are several common mistakes that taxpayers often make, which can lead to delays, penalties, and even legal issues. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you avoid them and ensure a seamless filing experience.

One of the most common mistakes is the failure to file the ITR within the prescribed deadline. Taxpayers who miss the deadline may face late filing fees, interest charges, and even prosecution in some cases. It's essential to be aware of the due date and plan your filing well in advance to avoid any last-minute rush.

Another common mistake is the incorrect reporting of income and expenses. Taxpayers may inadvertently misreport their income sources, deductions, or tax payments, leading to discrepancies and potential issues with the tax authorities. Carefully reviewing the information and cross-checking the calculations can help you avoid these errors.

Forgetting to attach the required documents is another common pitfall. Taxpayers may overlook the need to provide supporting documents, such as Form 16, investment statements, and expense receipts, which can result in delays or even the rejection of the ITR. Ensuring that you have all the necessary documents ready before filing can prevent this issue.

Lastly, some taxpayers may fail to e-verify their ITR form, which is a crucial step to complete the filing process. Without e-verification, the ITR will not be considered as filed, leading to penalties and potential legal consequences. Always double-check that you have e-verified your ITR form before the deadline.

By being mindful of these common mistakes and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free ITR filing experience in 2024.

Tips for maximizing tax deductions and exemptions

One of the key objectives of filing your ITR is to maximize your tax savings by claiming all the eligible deductions and exemptions. Understanding the available tax benefits and strategically utilizing them can significantly reduce your tax liability and improve your overall financial well-being.

Start by familiarizing yourself with the various tax deductions and exemptions offered by the government. These can include deductions for home loan interest, medical expenses, charitable contributions, and investments in tax-saving instruments like the Provident Fund, National Pension System (NPS), and life insurance policies.

It's also important to keep track of any changes or new deductions introduced by the government. For example, in 2024, there may be increased deduction limits or the introduction of new tax benefits, such as incentives for investments in renewable energy projects. Staying informed about these updates can help you maximize your tax savings.

Another effective strategy is to plan your investments and expenses throughout the year, rather than waiting until the last minute. This will allow you to optimize your tax-saving opportunities and ensure that you have the necessary documentation to claim the deductions and exemptions.

If you're unsure about the eligibility or the process of claiming specific deductions, it's advisable to consult with a tax professional or utilize the resources provided by the tax authorities. They can guide you through the intricacies of the tax laws and help you identify the most suitable deductions and exemptions for your unique financial situation.

By leveraging all the available tax benefits and planning your finances strategically, you can significantly reduce your tax burden and improve your overall financial well-being.

Using online platforms for easy and convenient ITR filing

In recent years, the Indian tax authorities have made significant strides in digitizing the ITR filing process, making it more convenient and efficient for taxpayers. The introduction of user-friendly online platforms has revolutionized the way individuals and businesses file their income tax returns.

One of the primary advantages of using online platforms for ITR filing is the ease of access. Taxpayers can now file their returns from the comfort of their homes or offices, without the need to physically visit tax offices or wait in long queues. This has been particularly beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic when social distancing measures were in place.

These online platforms also offer a range of features that simplify the filing process. They often include pre-filled forms, automated calculations, and intuitive interfaces that guide taxpayers through the various steps. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of errors, which can lead to delays or issues with the tax authorities.

Additionally, many online platforms provide taxpayers with the option to e-verify their ITR forms using digital signatures or Aadhaar-based authentication. This eliminates the need for physical paperwork and streamlines the entire filing process, making it more secure and efficient.

Furthermore, some online platforms offer value-added services, such as tax planning tools, calculators, and access to tax experts. These features can help taxpayers optimize their tax savings and ensure that they are claiming all the eligible deductions and exemptions.

By utilizing online platforms for ITR filing, taxpayers can enjoy a hassle-free experience, reduced paperwork, and the convenience of completing the process at their own pace. As the tax authorities continue to enhance the digital infrastructure, the benefits of online filing are expected to grow, making it an increasingly attractive option for taxpayers in 2024 and beyond.

Conclusion: Importance of timely and accurate ITR filing

In conclusion, filing your income tax return (ITR) is a crucial financial responsibility that every individual and business owner must fulfill. By following the ultimate checklist outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth and efficient ITR filing process in 2024.

From gathering the necessary documents to understanding the various ITR forms and selecting the right one, this comprehensive guide has covered all the essential steps. We've also highlighted the common mistakes to avoid and provided tips for maximizing your tax deductions and exemptions.

Staying up-to-date with the latest changes in the ITR filing process is crucial, as the tax authorities are constantly introducing new regulations and digital enhancements. By being proactive and utilizing online platforms for a convenient and secure filing experience, you can streamline the process and avoid any potential issues.

Remember, timely and accurate ITR filing not only ensures compliance with the law but also allows you to claim eligible tax refunds and maintain a good standing with the tax authorities. It's a civic duty that contributes to the overall development and well-being of the nation.

So, take the time to review this ultimate checklist, gather the necessary documents, and file your ITR with confidence. With the right approach and attention to detail, you can navigate the world of income tax filing smoothly and achieve financial success in 2024 and beyond.

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[nationallawreview]

DOJ Implements New Whistleblower Reward Program

Companies who submit healthcare claims to private payors, provide financial services to customers, interact with domestic or foreign public officials, or otherwise operate in highly regulated industries should take note that the Department of Justice (DOJ) has taken another significant step in its ongoing effort to encourage new whistleblowers with information about potential corporate criminal…

[newintern]

Understanding the potential risks of neglecting ESG requirements can be the key to gaining a significant competitive edge.

We are an ESG Awards, Businesses should start constructing more comprehensive ESG data governance since ESG data collecting is swiftly transitioning from voluntary to require to satisfy the increasing needs of their biggest clients. Due to limited resources, businesses must choose their investments carefully to enhance the collection of ESG data. We have identified seven best practices for companies that are just starting. Businesses must first choose who, or what group, will ultimately be responsible for gathering and reporting ESG data. Initially, many companies rely on their current internal audit, risk, compliance, or financial reporting teams to establish the program and make plans for a separate budget and workforce to take up ESG management in the future.

As one of the leading Sustainability Awards, the emergence of the ESG Controller, a position that would handle ESG reporting similarly to the CFO's handling of financial reporting, is one trend we're seeing. Companies are turning to an ESG Controller to take ownership of gathering and reporting consistent, accurate, and audit-ready ESG data from various sources. If you're starting, consider starting with one of the widely accepted voluntary reporting frameworks (such as SASB, GRI, or TCFD). These frameworks provide a solid foundation for most upcoming laws and a wealth of implementation resources. Speak with your biggest clients as soon as possible—for example, before they require decarbonization pledges as part of their value chain. When choosing your reporting structure in step 2, determine whether they prefer it.

As an expert ESG Award, investing early in purpose-built ESG data gathering technologies, as opposed to labor-intensive manual data collection, can maximize the impact of your small team when you're being asked to accomplish more with fewer resources. There are many other tools available; conduct your research and choose the platform that best suits your level of maturity. To assist in creating systems ready for audits, consider recruiting practitioners with experience in environmental science, ESG reporting, corporate social responsibility, and experts in assurance and internal control. Since ESG is a team sport, there is much room for cross-functional training to give your staff members possibilities for professional growth and bring new skill sets to your company.

To help you as Sustainability Awards, the growing pains businesses experienced in 2002 after the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) was signed are striking similarities with today's ESG issues. Companies had to set up internal controls over financial reporting, put new procedures in place, and start gathering data from departments that had never before submitted supporting documentation in a comparatively short time. As one might anticipate, several reporting cycles during those initial years were required to find and fix problems. With ESG, it's no different: businesses that implement robust procedures to guarantee the quality of their ESG data will be better equipped to spot and fix any problems before they have adverse effects.

In our role as ESG Awards, examine comparable businesses in your sector that may have reached a higher level of ESG reporting maturity and determine whether their investments and disclosures suit your company. There is no turning back from ESG reporting, and small and medium-sized enterprises must prepare for dire consequences. As customer requests become required, companies prioritizing enhancing their ESG data governance will have an advantage over their competitors. Your company won't be playing catch up if it uses the lessons from SOX and immediately invests in people, procedures, and technology. Aspiring companies will see the chance to maintain a competitive edge over their rivals and meet the demands of their essential stakeholders by offering high-quality ESG data.

[mariacallous]

A Sam Altman–funded nonprofit studying the effects of giving monthly checks of up to $1,000 to lower-income households in the US espouses transparency in its operations. “We aim to share data, findings, and insights widely,” OpenResearch says on its website, which describes its work as a “public good.”

But like at least two other Altman-linked organizations—OpenAI and UBI Charitable—OpenResearch has decided to withhold information about its finances and governance. In several years of filings to US tax authorities since their founding, each of the organizations has answered a question about their voluntary disclosure of financial statements, governing documents, and conflict-of-interest policies by stating that the public can review them upon request. It remains unclear whether anyone took them up on the offer in those years.

When WIRED requested those records, spokespeople for OpenAI in December and OpenResearch and UBI Charitable this month said their policies had changed, and up-to-date documents would not be disclosed. OpenResearch spokesperson Sourav Das only shared an undated and likely outdated conflict-of-interest policy bearing its old name, while UBI Charitable, which supports programs that offer unconditional cash transfers, didn’t turn over any records.

Both organizations claim their past statements on IRS forms were meant to underscore that they share documents they are required to under law, such as the filings themselves and their original applications to secure an exemption from paying taxes. But there’s already a wholly separate question on the form about access to documents that must be legally disclosed.

A UBI Charitable spokesperson responding with an unsigned email from an account titled “UBI Admin” didn’t respond to follow-up questions about their identity and additional explanation on why records hadn’t been provided. OpenAI spokesperson Kayla Wood says Altman has no formal role at UBI Charitable.

It’s uncommon for nonprofit organizations in the US to publish files they don’t legally have to, and there’s no penalty for shifting policies. But OpenResearch and UBI Charitable shrouding their operations hold particular significance after Altman's fellow board members at OpenAI last year publicly accused him of a lack of candor.

In a podcast interview last month, now-former board member Helen Toner alleged that OpenAI CEO Altman failed to disclose that he was launching ChatGPT and that he owned OpenAI’s years-old startup investment fund, control of which he didn't cede until this March. Toner also alleged that Altman provided inaccurate information about the organization’s procedures for preventing harm from its work. Later writing in the Economist, Toner and ex-board member Tasha McCauley said they believed Altman “undermined the board’s oversight of key decisions and internal safety protocols” and that senior leaders described him as cultivating “a toxic culture of lying.” Former employees claim they were muzzled from raising safety concerns. Toner and Altman declined to comment for this story. McCauley didn't respond to a request for comment.

OpenAI's new board chair Bret Taylor has said prior board members' concerns were not driven by OpenAI’s finances nor its statements to investors, and that Altman enjoys overwhelming support internally.

Elon Musk, who says he contributed over $40 million to help launch and sustain OpenAI, had seized on accusations about Altman to sue him in California state court for allegedly deviating from OpenAI’s original mission to develop AI to benefit humanity. Musk withdrew the lawsuit on June 11, without explanation.

OpenAI had called Musk’s claims meritless. An investigation it commissioned found “a breakdown in trust” between Altman and board members but not sufficient as to require his removal from power, according to a summary that OpenAI released while declining to share the full report.

The alleged concerns about Altman’s behavior wouldn’t necessarily be stopped, exposed, or rectified by transparency into an organization’s finances or rules. Their disclosure, however, could inspire greater public confidence and provide clarity during any future disputes. They could show the process meant to be followed to vet potential partnerships with other Altman-connected entities, how leadership can be ousted, and where money is flowing in more granular detail than generally otherwise available.

No-Strings Cash

The OpenAI-linked nonprofits are putting millions of dollars, including in part from Altman's personal fortune earned through investing in startups, toward a potentially pivotal question in the decades to come: How to uplift people economically as technologies such as AI come for their jobs.

Altman started what became OpenResearch as YC Research, an offshoot of Y Combinator, the startup accelerator he was running at the time in 2015. He said he would be donating $10 million to the nonprofit and set its first cause as funding a five-year study in the US on basic income, the concept of sending people a steady stipend with no strings attached. “I’m fairly confident that at some point in the future, as technology continues to eliminate traditional jobs and massive new wealth gets created, we’re going to see some version of this at a national scale,” Altman wrote in 2016.

He wanted to understand what people did with the extra cash, how they felt, and what effect this had on the rest of society. Elizabeth Rhodes, a then-recent doctoral graduate in social work and political science, came on as research director in 2016, started a pilot project in Oakland, California, dissociated the organization from Y Combinator, and went on to raise a total of about $25 million in contributions through 2022. The full-scale study, which ended up lasting three years across two US states (undisclosed so far), just wrapped. Results are expected later this year.

Altman chairs OpenResearch’s board but has provided “total independence" to the organization, Rhodes recently told Fortune. Yet he is entangled in other ways. OpenResearch was $14.5 million in debt to Altman as of the end of 2022 to repay about $14 million he had personally loaned the organization, according to the organization’s filings to the IRS to stay exempt from paying taxes. OpenAI also contributed at least $75,000 in a grant to OpenResearch.

Its IRS filings, which span 2016 through 2022, maintained that the nonprofit would release records that it’s not under obligation to do so. Das, the spokesperson, says the 2023 filing will clarify that OpenResearch is “happy to provide information required to be shared publicly if it is not available” on websites where the IRS and state of California publish required disclosures.

Neither database mandates nor generally contains up-to-date versions of the records that UBI Charitable and OpenResearch had said they provided in the past.

The original YC Research conflict-of-interest policy that Das did share calls for company insiders to be upfront about transactions in which their impartiality could be questioned and for the board to decide how to proceed.

Das says the policy “may have been amended since OpenResearch’s policies changed (including when the name was changed from YC Research), but the core elements remain the same.”

No Website

UBI Charitable launched in 2020 with $10 million donated from OpenAI, as first reported by TechCrunch last year. UBI Charitable’s aim, according to its government filings, is putting the over $31 million it received by the end of 2022 to support initiatives that try to offset “the societal impacts” of new technologies and ensure no one is left behind. It has donated largely to CitySquare in Dallas and Heartland Alliance in Chicago, both of which work on a range of projects to fight poverty.

UBI Charitable doesn’t appear to have a website but shares a San Francisco address with OpenResearch and OpenAI, and OpenAI staff have been listed on UBI Charitable's government paperwork. Its three Form 990 filings since launching all state that records including governing documents, financial statements, and a conflict-of-interest policy were available upon request.

Rick Cohen, chief operating and communications officer for National Council of Nonprofits, an advocacy group, says “available upon request” is a standard answer plugged in by accounting firms. OpenAI, OpenResearch, and UBI Charitable have always shared the same San Francisco accounting firm, Fontanello Duffield & Otake, which didn’t respond to a request for comment.

Miscommunication or poor oversight could lead to the standard answer about access to records getting submitted, “even if the organization wasn’t intending to make them available,” Cohen says.

The disclosure question ended up on what’s known as the Form 990 as part of an effort in 2008 to help the increasingly complex world of nonprofits showcase their adherence to governance best practices, at least as implied by the IRS, says Kevin Doyle, senior director of finance and accountability at Charity Navigator, which evaluates nonprofits to help guide donors’ giving decisions. “Having that sort of transparency story is a way to indicate to donors that their money is going to be used responsibly,” Doyle says.

OpenResearch solicits donations on its website, and UBI Charitable stated on its most recent IRS filing that it had received over $27 million in public support. Doyle says Charity Navigator’s data show donations tend to flow to organizations it rates higher, with transparency among the measured factors.

It’s certainly not unheard of for organizations to share a wide range of records. Charity Navigator has found that most of the roughly 900 largest US nonprofits reliant on individual donors publish financial statements on their websites. It doesn’t track disclosure of bylaws or conflict-of-interest policies.

Charity Navigator publishes its own audited financial statements and at least eight nonstandard policies it maintains, including ones on how long it retains documents, how it treats whistleblower complaints, and which gifts staff can accept. “Donors can look into what we're doing and make their own judgment rather than us operating as a black box, saying, ‘Please give us money, but don't ask any questions,’” Doyle says.

Cohen of the National Council of Nonprofits cautions that over-disclosure could create vulnerabilities. Posting a disaster-recovery plan, for example, could offer a roadmap to computer hackers. He adds that just because organizations have a policy on paper doesn’t mean they follow it. But knowing what they were supposed to do to evaluate a potential conflict of interest could still allow for more public accountability than otherwise possible, and if AI could be as consequential as Altman envisions, the scrutiny may very well be needed.

[earthoodservices]

A Global Perspective: How Different Countries Approach Carbon Auditing and Reporting

In a global effort to cohesively combat climate change, the process of gaining carbon audits and reports serves as crucial mechanisms in the reduction and tracking of GHG emissions. When nations strive to meet climate targets internationally, like that in the Paris Agreement, the frameworks and strategies employed in auditing and reporting can also vary significantly.

European Union

The EU is seen as a leader in climate regulation, where the ETS or EU’s Emission Trading Systems is the cornerstone of Europe’s policy to be combating climate change. It is a cost-effective tool for the reduction of successful greenhouse gas emissions. Covering over 11000 manufacturing plants and power stations in 27 member states in the EU, and emissions from airlines that fly between the countries. EU mandates large companies to publish regular social and environmental reports, including detailed accounts of carbon emissions. This need promotes transparency and encourages organizations to develop processes for reducing carbon footprints. The “Green Deal from EU” will aim to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050, thereby tightening expectations and regulations for carbon audits.

The United States

The United States has a less centralized process for carbon auditing or reporting than the EU. There is no mandatory scheme of carbon trading or national carbon tax, but some states like California pioneer aggressive climactic policies. For instance, the “California Cap-and Trade” 2013 program, has been one of the largest carbon trading programs worldwide. It covered 85% of the total GHG emissions of the state. The EPA or “Environmental Protection Agency” needs to report GHG emissions from large suppliers and sources in the USA through the GHG reporting program. However, this is a more decentralized approach with unique variations on how individual states can report and manage emissions.

India

India strongly focuses on increasing the capacity for renewable energy and overall energy efficiency. The NAPCC or “National Action Plan on Climate Change” displays eight national missions that run through 2017-20, focusing on the promotion of sustainable development. Although India does not possess a mandatory GHG emissions report system across all industries, it operates a PAT scheme (called Perform, Achieve & Trade) under the national mission for enhanced energy efficiency. The market-based PAT scheme enhances cost-effectiveness as well as energy efficiency across sectors. Third-party audits and voluntary reporting should be encouraged, where an increased number of Indian organizations participate in projects of global carbon disclosure.

China

China has been the world’s largest emitter of CO2 but has made considerable strides in carbon audits and reports in recent years. In 2021 the country had launched a national trading scheme, focusing on the sector of power generation. The scheme has the expected expansion to include more industries to peak emissions before 2030 while achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. China shows heavy investment in technologies around renewable energy which reduces its rapidly growing economy’s carbon intensity. The government mandates GHG emissions and energy audits which report for key industries, thus integrating collated efforts into a national framework that would support long-term objectives of the climate.

Conclusion

The Carbon audit and report reflect diverse political wills, economic priorities, as well as environmental challenges. The trading schemes of the EU to the decentralized strategies of the USA, and the emerging frameworks in China and India, every country contributes uniquely to the collected effort of reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. The national strategies not only aim to meet international climate commitments but also foster innovation, and encourage private and public sectors to participate actively in global climate change. As the world continues to face and evolve new environmental challenges, the effectiveness and adaptability of the carbon auditing and reporting frameworks will shape a sustainable future.