The bill amends various sections of the Kansas Statutes Annotated concerning the regulation of certified public accountants (CPAs). It eliminates the vice-chairperson position from the board's structure and mandates that the board meet at least twice a year. The bill clarifies the admissibility of certified records in court and updates educational qualifications for CPA applicants, requiring a baccalaureate or higher degree with a concentration in accounting. It also revises experience requirements for obtaining a permit to practice and modifies the fee structure for certifications and permits, allowing the board to adjust fees as necessary. Additionally, it introduces continuing education requirements for permit renewal, with exemptions based on the permit holder's principal place of business.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies key definitions related to the practice of certified public accountancy and removes the requirement for the board to verify substantial equivalency of CPA licensure from other states. This change allows individuals with active licenses in good standing from other states to practice in Kansas without obtaining a Kansas permit or paying associated fees, provided they meet specific educational and experience criteria. The bill also outlines conditions for out-of-state licensees exercising practice privileges in Kansas and establishes that individuals with revoked or suspended permits cannot be granted practice privileges without board approval. By repealing several existing statutes, the bill aims to streamline the regulatory framework for CPAs in Kansas while ensuring compliance with state regulations.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 1-202, 1-301, 1-302a, 1-302b, 1-307, 1-310, 1-321, 1-322