The bill amends Florida Statutes related to public accountancy, focusing on the licensure and regulation of certified public accountants (CPAs). It emphasizes the need for independent and objective CPAs, deletes the definition of the "Uniform Accountancy Act," and allows the Board of Accountancy to procure contracted services from certain non-profit corporations. The bill also revises the education and work experience requirements for CPA licensure, updates licensure requirements for international applicants, and modifies continuing education requirements to include a specific percentage dedicated to ethics. Furthermore, it clarifies standards for good moral character and allows the board to refuse certification based on ongoing investigations in other states.

Additionally, the bill permits individuals with an active license in good standing from another state or territory to provide public accounting services in Florida without obtaining a Florida license, registering with the board, or paying a fee, provided they have met certain educational and examination requirements in their home state. It removes previous stipulations regarding the equivalency of state standards. The bill also requires both the individual and their employing firm to consent to the jurisdiction of the Florida board and comply with state laws. Nonresident licensees will meet continuing education requirements if they comply with those in their home state, with some exceptions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 160 Filed: 473.301, 473.302, 473.3035, 473.306, 473.312
S 160 c1: 473.301, 473.302, 473.3035, 473.306, 473.312
S 160 e1: 473.301, 473.302, 473.3035, 473.306, 473.312