COCRA Update January 2009

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CITY TAX LICENSING:

Several COCRA members have inquired about city tax licensing.  Apparently, cities throughout the State of California are informing official CSRs they need a business tax license and may be liable for back taxes to the city in which they reside/work.

If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry.  There is case law that says you are not required to get a city license.  Simply copy and paste the language below and send it back to the city requesting the license.

I am an Official Reporter for the [Los Angeles Superior Court].  As such, preparation of transcripts from my notes constitute part of my official duties provided for by law as an officer of the Court, and the fees and methos of compensation for transcript preparation is provided as set forth by the legislature.

Pursuant to City of Los Angeles v. Vaughn 55 Cal.2nd 198, I am therefore exempt from the requirement.

COURT REPORTERS BOARD OF CALIFORNIA:

It has come to our attention that the CR Board of California is named in the Governor’s budget proposal.  The proposal calls for the elimination of the CR Board; the functions of the Board to be undertaken by the State Bar.

COCRA supports the CR Board in its efforts to maintain the quality and integrity of our great profession.  Let’s hope Governor Schwarzenegger realizes how necessary the CR Board is for our fellow Californians involved in the legal process.

CR Board’s Mission Statement as copied from their website at http://www.courtreportersboard.ca.gov/.

The mission of the Court Reporters Board is to protect the public health, safety and welfare by ensuring the integrity of judicial records through oversight of the court reporting profession. The CRB carries out this mission by testing, licensing and disciplining court reporters, and by recognizing the schools of court reporting that meet state curriculum standards.

COCRA LOBBY DAY:

On Tuesday, February 3, 2009, the COCRA Board and COCRA volunteers will meet with legislators in Sacramento.  Our own COCRA lobbyist, Liberty Sanchez, will provide those unfamiliar with the legislative process valuable input before heading out for Lobby Day.

There will be many opportunities throughout this budget process to attend hearings and lobby with reporters from all over the state in all associations.  If you would like to participate, please contact your local COCRA representative.

-THE COCRA TEAM

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