Gov. Evers signs bill providing an additional pathway to CPA licensure

A bipartisan bill to expand the options available for CPA licensure in Wisconsin was signed into law on Thursday, April 2, by Gov. Tony Evers. The WICPA worked with Sen. Howard Marklein, and Rep. Robert Wittke on this vital legislation, which is officially in effect.

Before this legislation was passed, Wisconsin required CPA candidates to take one of two pathways to earn a CPA license. Candidates needed either a master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree with at least 150 credit hours, along with one year of relevant work experience and the successful completion of all portions of the Uniform CPA Exam to become licensed.

Research has shown that the cost of additional education is a significant barrier to many would-be CPAs, resulting in fewer college students choosing accounting as their major. It has also shown a decline in first-time CPA Exam candidates after the 150-credit requirement was implemented, with the decline aggregating over multiple years.

This third, alternative pathway now allows candidates to earn a CPA license with a bachelor’s degree, completion of the CPA Exam and two years of relevant work experience instead of the 150 credits previously required. This option supports earlier entry into the workforce and ongoing skill development as internship and apprenticeship opportunities continue to grow.

“The number of new CPAs entering the profession remains a hot topic and is a challenge for firms and organizations, both large and small,” said WICPA President & CEO Tammy Hofstede. “Tackling the workforce development issue is complex and includes many variables, and making a CPA license more accessible is critical to ensuring the future of the profession.”