By Bob Katzen
The Senate 37-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters said would help the certified public accountant (CPA) workforce grow and meet consumer demand while upholding its longtime professional standards. The proposal updates the standards for certification as a CPA by offering a mix of college education and work experience, such as a bachelor’s degree combined with two years of full-time professional experience, or a master’s degree paired with one year of professional experience.
It also would remove an outdated threshold, currently in place, which often burdens an applicant with completing more course credits than are needed for a college degree.
Another provision helps meet the demand for CPA services by authorizing CPAs who are licensed in other states to practice in Massachusetts, as long as they have met Massachusetts’ educational requirements and passed the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Examination.
“CPAs play an invaluable role in ensuring that Massachusetts remains a leader in industries across the country,” said Sen. John Cronin (D-Fitchburg) the lead sponsor of the measure. “This legislation removes financial barriers to pursuing a career as a CPA, while maintaining the same rigorous academic and professional standards that have guided the profession for decades.”
“Massachusetts businesses, municipalities and families all rely on trusted financial professionals, and right now the pipeline into the accounting profession is shrinking,” said Sen. Pavel Payano (D-Lawrence), Senate Chair of the Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure. “This legislation opens practical pathways to licensure while preserving the high educational standards that define the CPA credentials. By modernizing how qualified candidates enter the profession, we strengthen our workforce, support economic stability and ensure the next generation of accountants can meet the needs of our communities.”
(A “Yes” vote is for the bill.)
Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes