Bill > HB1143

This bill revises the licensure requirements for certified public accountants (CPAs) in Indiana, focusing on education and experience standards. The bill modifies existing law by establishing three distinct pathways for educational qualification: (1) a baccalaureate degree with an accounting concentration, (2) a baccalaureate degree with an accounting concentration totaling 150 semester hours, or (3) a post-baccalaureate degree with an accounting concentration, all from a college or university deemed acceptable by the board. The experience requirements now vary based on the educational pathway: applicants with a standard baccalaureate accounting degree must have two years of professional experience, while those with 150-hour or post-baccalaureate degrees need one year of experience. The bill also repeals a previous provision that allowed advanced degrees or additional coursework to be substituted for professional experience. Acceptable experience includes various accounting-related services verified by a licensed professional, and can be gained in government, industry, academia, or public practice. These changes will take effect on January 1, 2027, and aim to standardize and potentially elevate the professional requirements for accountants in Indiana.