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HB 643

Certified Public Accountants - Licensure - Qualifications

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lily Qi and 2 co-sponsors

HB 643 modifies Maryland's CPA licensure and qualification requirements, potentially affecting educational prerequisites and professional standards for accounting practitioners.

Third Reading Passed (128-0)
0
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Bill Summary · HB 643

Legislative bill overview

HB 643 modifies the licensure and qualification requirements for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Maryland. The bill appears to adjust educational prerequisites, examination standards, or experience requirements for individuals seeking CPA certification in the state. Specific provisions are being evaluated in the Economic Matters Committee.

Why is this important

CPA licensing standards directly affect who can practice accounting professionally in Maryland, influencing workforce availability, service quality, and public protection. Changes to these requirements can impact career pathways for aspiring accountants, employer compliance costs, and the overall competitiveness of Maryland's accounting profession relative to other states and national standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Alignment with national standards: Maryland must balance state-specific requirements with AICPA (American Institute of CPAs) standards to avoid creating barriers for interstate practice or reciprocity
  • Access and equity: Changes to qualifications could either expand opportunities for underrepresented groups or inadvertently create new barriers to entry depending on the specific modifications
  • Business community impact: Employers and accounting firms may have concerns about workforce availability, training costs, or compliance if requirements become more or less stringent

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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