AICPA proposes changes to sustainability attestation standards

The American Institute of CPAs’ Auditing Standards Board proposed a set of updates to its attestation standards regarding sustainability and other emerging assurance issues. 

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The AICPA proposed a Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements, which propose two subject-matter specific sections: Proposed AT-C section 325, Reporting on an Examination of Sustainability Information, and Proposed AT-C section 330, Reporting on a Review of Sustainability Information. The exposure draft also proposes to replace the certain SSAEs to address the evolving profession. The AICPA announced earlier this month that it would be proposing the changes.

The SSAE would become effective on or after June 15, 2029. Early implementation would be permitted. The comment period ends June 30, 2026. Stakeholders can download the online survey and submit their comments to commentletters@aicpa-cima.com.

The AICPA’s attestation standards guide was last updated in December 2022 and is used by American CPAs when performing attestation engagements to report on sustainability information. Given the increased focus on environmental, social and governance issues in some organizations, there has been an increasing demand for additional standards and guidance for reporting on ESG matters.