Journal of Accountancy reports that the AICPA Auditing Standards Board (ASB) has approved two new exposure drafts for public comment, both aimed at refining key auditing and attestation standards.

These proposals, issued following a Feb. 13 public meeting, are designed to improve audit quality and align professional standards with evolving industry needs. 

One of the exposure drafts, Proposed Statements on Standards for Attestation Engagements, Scope Limitations in a Review Engagement, focuses on attestation review engagements. The proposed revisions to AT-C Section 210 would allow auditors to issue a qualified conclusion or disclaimer of conclusion when faced with scope limitations in sustainability reporting review engagements.

Public comments are open until May 30, and the final standard, if approved, would take effect for review reports dated on or after Dec. 15, 2026. 

The second exposure draft, Proposed Statement on Auditing Standards, External Confirmations, suggests revisions to key Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS) sections, including AU-C Sections 330, 500 and 505.

These changes aim to enhance audit evidence procedures and risk assessments. Public comments are due by June 30 and the standard, if finalized, would apply to audits for periods ending no earlier than Dec. 15, 2027.