Maryland Association of CPAs (MACPA) has introduced that House Bill 643, “Certified Public Accountants — Licensure — Qualifications,” has acquired remaining legislative approval, creating a brand new pathway to CPA licensure pending the governor’s signature.
The measure handed unanimously in each chambers of the Maryland General Assembly, clearing the Senate after earlier approval within the House. Sponsored by Kriselda Valderrama, Lily Qi and William Wivell, the invoice introduces a modernized licensure framework that preserves the 150-hour mannequin whereas including an experience-based different.
The laws now awaits signature from Wes Moore and is scheduled to take impact Oct. 1. MACPA supported the invoice all through the legislative course of.
“This is a tremendous victory for Maryland’s CPA profession,” stated Rebekah Olson, CEO of MACPA. “This new pathway will open doors for more CPA candidates while helping employers address critical talent needs. It strengthens the pipeline without compromising the rigor and trust that define the CPA credential.”
Under the brand new regulation, CPA candidates might qualify by incomes a bachelor’s diploma, finishing two years of related skilled expertise, and passing the CPA Exam. The current pathways requiring both 150 credit score hours or a grasp’s diploma, together with one 12 months of expertise and passing the examination, stay unchanged.
MACPA famous the change aligns Maryland with a broader nationwide pattern as states reply to expertise shortages and evolving workforce calls for. The added flexibility is designed to cut back time and value obstacles whereas sustaining skilled requirements.
Olson additionally credited lawmakers together with Arthur Ellis and Brian Feldman for advancing the laws. “We’re incredibly grateful to lawmakers for recognizing the need to modernize CPA licensure in a thoughtful, responsible way,” Olson stated. “Their support on this issue will mean substantial, meaningful change for the state’s CPAs, future CPAs, and Maryland businesses.”
