S.B. No. 522 amends the Occupations Code to streamline the certification and regulation process for out-of-state certified public accountants (CPAs) wishing to practice in Texas. The bill allows the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy to issue certificates to individuals holding valid CPA licenses from other states, provided they meet specific criteria. Notably, the bill removes previous requirements related to verification by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy and instead introduces new criteria, including passing the uniform CPA examination and completing a degree with a concentration in accounting. Additionally, it specifies that individuals must have relevant work experience based on their educational pathway.

The bill also establishes that individuals with out-of-state licenses can practice in Texas without obtaining a Texas certificate or license, as long as they meet the outlined requirements. Furthermore, it grants the board the authority to prohibit individuals from exercising these privileges if they do not meet the necessary criteria. A provision is included for individuals who held out-of-state licenses as of December 31, 2024, allowing them to continue practicing under the privileges of this section without needing a Texas license. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 901.462 (Occupations Code 901)
Senate Committee Report: Occupations Code 901.259, Occupations Code 901.462 (Occupations Code 901)
Engrossed: Occupations Code 901.259, Occupations Code 901.462 (Occupations Code 901)
House Committee Report: Occupations Code 901.259, Occupations Code 901.462 (Occupations Code 901)
Enrolled: Occupations Code 901.259, Occupations Code 901.462 (Occupations Code 901)