House Bill No. 6774, now Public Act No. 23-180, is an act concerning the examination requirement for obtaining a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certificate. The bill introduces changes to the existing law, effective July 1, 2023, which include the insertion of new provisions and the renumbering of existing sections. The bill specifies that the board shall grant the CPA certificate to individuals who meet the character, education, experience, and examination requirements upon payment of a $150 fee. The definition of good character is clarified, and the board's authority to refuse a certificate based on character is outlined, including the provision of a statement and evidence to the applicant if they are found unqualified.

The bill also modifies the educational requirements for CPA applicants, detailing the semester hours and degree requirements before and after January 1, 2000. A new subsection (e) has been inserted, allowing applicants applying to take the examination on or after October 1, 2023, to receive credit for each passed section of the exam in any sitting, provided all sections are passed within a thirty-month period, with possible extensions for health, military service, or other individual hardships. Subsequent sections of the existing law have been renumbered accordingly, with the experience requirement now under subsection (f) and the annual registration fee and conditions for using the CPA title under subsection (g). The bill also includes provisions for the board to charge fees for examination or reexamination sections, or to authorize a third party to do so.

Statutes affected:
Public Act No. 23-180: 20-281c