Bill > HB643

This bill modifies the requirements for obtaining a license to practice as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Maryland, specifically concerning educational and work experience qualifications. Previously, applicants needed 120 semester hours to take the exam and 150 semester hours to be licensed, along with 1,000 or 2,000 hours of practical work experience depending on the application date. This bill introduces new pathways to licensure, requiring either a Master's degree with an accounting concentration and 1 year of experience, a Bachelor's degree plus 30 additional credit hours with an accounting concentration and 1 year of experience, or a Bachelor's degree with an accounting concentration and 2 years of experience. The bill also adjusts the timeframe for completing practical work experience, allowing it to be obtained over a period of up to 6 years, and clarifies that the experience must involve accounting, attest, management advisory, financial advisory, tax, or consulting skills, performed under the supervision of a licensed CPA or appropriately qualified professional. The bill also specifies that the required degrees must be from accredited institutions and sets an effective date of October 1, 2026.

Business and Industry, Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0643?ys=2026RS