As CEO of the MACPA, I want to share some important news about changes happening in the CPA licensure process, both nationally and here in Maryland. These changes could reshape the accounting profession, and we need your involvement as we move forward together.

The MACPA has been working hard at both the state and national levels to make sure Maryland stays in step with these developments. With fewer people enrolling in accounting programs and becoming CPAs, there has been a lot of talk about how to fix the pipeline and CPA licensure.

In July, the National Pipeline Advisory Group — chaired by past MACPA Chair Lexy Kessler — released a report highlighting six key issues. The one getting the most attention is how to reduce the time and cost it takes to become a CPA.

While the 150-hour rule has long been a standard of rigor and professionalism in our field, it is increasingly seen as a barrier to entry for many. Discussions around alternative pathways to CPA licensure are a direct response to these concerns, aiming to attract more individuals to the profession without compromising the high standards we uphold.

On Sept. 12, the AICPA and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy released a proposal that would give candidates the option to gain an additional year of competency-based work experience instead of the traditional fifth year of education. This would make it more affordable and accessible for those wanting to become CPAs.

Last week, in a separate but related exposure draft on Sept 30, the AICPA and NASBA proposed changes to the Uniform Accountancy Act, which outlines a model of how states can regulate the profession. These changes would adjust the minimum requirements for CPA licensure, paving the way for the new Competency-Based Experience Pathway. They’d also clarify how CPAs can practice across state lines under mobility.

So what does this mean for MACPA members? Here’s what you need to know:

First, the MACPA has been working closely with the Maryland Board of Accountancy to ensure our state’s approach to licensure stays up to date while maintaining the core skills and competencies that make the CPA credential so valuable.

Second, your MACPA Board of Directors has created a task force to focus on modernizing licensure and responding to these proposals.

Third, making any changes to CPA education and experience requirements will require new laws, which means we’ll need support from the Maryland General Assembly and the Board of Accountancy. We’re committed to making sure these changes are in the best interest of current and future CPAs while maintaining the high standards of the profession.

One of our top priorities in Maryland for the 2025 legislative session will be advocating for enhancing mobility. This will allow CPAs to work across state lines more easily as the licensure rules evolve. To make this happen, we’ll need legislative changes from the Maryland General Assembly. This isn’t just a regulatory issue — it’s about making sure CPAs can continue to serve businesses and the public without unnecessary barriers.

I encourage you to think about how you can help shape the future of the profession. Stay informed, get involved in the conversation, and do your part to inspire the next generation of Maryland CPAs.

Share your thoughts by completing these polls

We encourage you to share your thoughts about these issues with us by completing this brief series of polling questions. The questions should take only a few short moments to complete, and your input will be invaluable as we move forward.

• Complete the polling questions here.

The future of CPA licensure is being decided now, and your voice matters. Please share your thoughts and ideas with me. Your input is crucial as we navigate this pivotal time.

Together, through thoughtful advocacy and teamwork, we can build a future for the CPA profession that is innovative, inclusive, and strong. #MarylandCPAproud