The proposed bill would update the statutes governing Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Arizona by removing the existing requirement for applicants to have a minimum of 2,000 hours of accounting experience and 150 semester hours of specified courses. Instead, it would require applicants to provide evidence of either a baccalaureate degree with two years of experience, a baccalaureate degree plus 30 additional semester hours with one year of experience, or a postbaccalaureate degree with one year of experience. The bill also introduces alternative certification pathways for applicants with CPA credentials from other jurisdictions, allowing for varied combinations of experience and educational qualifications.

Additionally, the bill would enhance the responsibilities of the State Board of Accountancy, granting it the authority to investigate complaints and approve requests for inactive status. It removes outdated language regarding limited reciprocity privileges and adds new requirements for individuals with valid CPA registrations from other jurisdictions. The bill also clarifies the fee adjustment process, prohibits registrants under investigation from canceling their certificates, and defines key terms related to CPA practice. Overall, these updates aim to modernize the CPA certification process and improve regulatory oversight in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-701, 32-703, 32-721, 32-723, 32-725, 32-729, 32-730, 32-730.02, 32-730.06, 32-731, 32-732, 32-741, 32-741.01, 32-741.02, 32-742, 32-743, 32-749, 32-702, 32-730.04, 32-730.01, 41-1080, 32-4302, 32-4301, 41-1092.08