Welcome to the RyanPAC Newsletter!
RyanPAC plays an important role in advocating for tax policies that align with the needs of our clients and the business community. By supporting policymakers who champion sound tax policy, RyanPAC helps create an environment that enables both our clients and the Firm to thrive.
Let’s take a look at our 2024 accomplishments and the exciting work ahead in 2025.
2024 RyanPAC Achievements
As RyanPAC grows, so does our impact. This year, we focused on strengthening our relationships across the country, investing in more states than ever before.
More Than $800,000 Invested in Key Elections
In 2024, RyanPAC continued its mission to support candidates and initiatives that align with Ryan’s values and business goals. With more than $800,000 invested in more than 100 candidates at the federal, state, and local levels, we’ve helped drive positive change in critical tax policy discussions.
For example, Gina Rodriquez on the Ryan Advocacy team successfully collaborated with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), which are elected positions, about a client’s audit. Their fair review of the fact pattern as a result of her engagement led to the withdrawal of the audit, allowing the client to file their returns in compliance with state tax requirements.
Support in Key Gubernatorial Races
2024 also saw important victories in governor races. Governor-elect Bob Ferguson of Washington and Governor-elect Patrick Morrisey of West Virginia, supported by the PAC, are among the leaders we are excited to partner with in 2025.
Our Advocacy team is already engaging with Governor-elect Ferguson to discuss his goals for the Department of Revenue and how Ryan can help provide resources and improve efficiencies. Ryan’s collaboration with Governor-elect Morrisey is focused on his transition plan and cabinet appointees. We look forward to helping them throughout their first legislative sessions on sound tax policy.
Continued Congressional Influence
RyanPAC continues to build meaningful relationships with members of Congress. This year, we supported key leaders such as Senator John Thune, who was recently elected as the Senate Majority Leader, and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, both of whom play a crucial role in shaping federal tax policy.
In addition, we collaborated with Congressman Bruce Westerman, Chairman of the House Committee on Natural Resources, and our Severance Tax team on a tax policy issue related to federal royalties. Congressman Westerman’s efforts alongside Congresswoman Harriet Hageman, who RyanPAC also supported, led to decisions that resulted in more than $300 million to access for our clients.
RyanPAC CANDIDATES IN THE SPOTLIGHT
RyanPAC regularly reviews its contribution strategy and evaluates candidates based on a set of criteria aligned and focused on elected officials’ strategic committees and roles combined with our business objectives and company mission.
Governor of Arizona Katie Hobbs (AZ)
- Ryan Leadership Engagement: In October 2024, Governor Hobbs met with 15 Ryan Principals to discuss Arizona priorities. We also hosted Governor Hobbs in our Dallas headquarters for a breakfast with DFW women leaders to discuss the importance of women in office.
- Strengthening Arizona: As the CEO of Arizona, Governor Hobbs leads the state where Ryan’s fourth largest office resides, Ryan Legal Services is located, and we have significant client and revenue activity.
California State Controller
Malia Cohen
- Championing California Tax Policy: As California’s tax landscape evolves, Ryan collaborates with Controller Cohen to navigate these changes and advocate for policies that benefit businesses.
- Expanding Influence in California: RyanPAC’s partnership with Controller Cohen strengthens our presence and reputation, reinforcing our role as a trusted partner in the state’s tax environment. She also plays a strategic role in policies such as the economic development program and setting tax policy.
2025 RyanPAC Strategic Outlook
Looking ahead, RyanPAC is committed to advancing tax policies that benefit our clients and strengthen Ryan’s position as a leader and expert in the industry. Our expertise is sought after by lawmakers across the country, reflecting our reputation as trusted advisors on complex tax strategy.
Federal
Nothing short of an attack on our business plan is underway. In a parting shot from the outgoing administration, the IRS specifically is targeting contingent fees. Additionally, 2025 is being called the “Super Bowl of Tax” in Washington. Everything from historic tax credits to TSA fee backlog disputes is on the table in 2025. One of the biggest priorities will be the extension of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), which is set to expire in 2025. Without action, tax provisions such as individual tax brackets will revert to pre-2017 levels. RyanPAC is working closely with strategically positioned congressional representatives such as Jason Smith, Chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means, to ensure the continuation of these provisions and shape the tax package extension to support long-term business growth and innovation.
Texas
Texas is in session only every other year, so we have a robust program of work. One example is the expiration of the state R&D tax credits. Reducing the tax burden our clients pay on businesses that invest in these activities encourages more businesses to develop new products, technologies, and processes. RyanPAC is focused on this Texas Research and Development Tax Incentive. Other key initiatives are a focus on property tax changes, expanding the ability to bypass the administrative hearing process, and more.
Conclusion
As we close out 2024, we want to send a heartfelt thank you to all our RyanPAC members. Your contributions, driven by patriotism and confidence in our Firm’s vision, have been invaluable during such a dynamic year.
We appreciate you for being a key member of our team and helping us build meaningful relationships with lawmakers and leaders across the country. Your support enables RyanPAC to advocate for policies and initiatives that empower our businesses, support our clients, and strengthen our Firm’s future.
If you would like further information or would like someone from the PAC to speak to your group, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Advocacy will be sending direct communications on the technical elements as they develop across the states and at the federal level.
© 2024 Ryan, LLC