Georgia House advances bipartisan House Bill 148 for CPA licensure reform

The Georgia State Legislature has taken a significant step towards modernizing the pathway to becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with the introduction of House Bill 148. This bill aims to address the growing workforce shortage in the accounting profession by providing alternative licensure pathways that emphasize practical experience alongside academic qualifications.

Currently, Georgia law requires aspiring CPAs to complete 150 semester hours of college education and gain one year of experience before taking the CPA exam. House Bill 148 proposes two new pathways: candidates can either obtain a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in accounting and complete two years of experience or earn a master’s degree in accountancy or taxation with just one year of experience. This change is designed to make the CPA designation more accessible, particularly for those who may find the current requirements burdensome.

Support for House Bill 148 is robust, with endorsements from the Georgia Society of CPAs, the Georgia State Board of Accountancy, and major accounting firms like Deloitte and KPMG. Proponents argue that the bill will help retain talented accounting students who might otherwise seek opportunities in states with more flexible licensure requirements. The bill also aims to maintain high standards of education and ethics within the profession, ensuring that all CPAs still pass the uniform CPA exam.

The committee discussions highlighted the urgent need for reform, particularly in rural areas of Georgia, where attracting qualified CPAs has become increasingly challenging. The proposed changes are seen as essential for ensuring that businesses and municipalities can access the financial expertise they require.

As the bill moves forward, it reflects a broader trend across the country, with 35 other states already adopting similar measures to modernize CPA licensure. The Georgia legislature's actions signal a commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the accounting profession while maintaining the integrity and quality that define the CPA designation.