This bill amends the qualifications for obtaining a certificate as a certified public accountant (CPA) in Iowa. It establishes two pathways for applicants: one requires completion of at least 150 semester hours of college education, a degree, and one year of experience, while the other requires 120 semester hours, a degree, and two years of experience. The degree must be a baccalaureate conferred by a recognized institution and include a concentration in accounting or a related field. Additionally, the required experience must involve providing services or advice in various accounting-related areas, which can be gained in government, industry, academia, or the public sector.

The bill also makes several amendments to existing law, including the deletion of certain subsections and the introduction of new provisions regarding practice privileges for out-of-state accountants. Specifically, it allows individuals or firms from outside Iowa to practice public accounting in the state without licensure, provided they meet specific conditions, including holding a valid license in their principal state of business. The bill includes an effective date of July 1, 2026, for these changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 542.5, 542.19, 542.20