Assembly Bill 1175, which enhances and modernizes CPA licensure requirements by creating more inclusive, flexible and affordable pathways for aspiring CPAs to demonstrate the necessary competency for licensure, passed out of the Assembly Business and Professions Committee April 8. The bill now heads to the Assembly Appropriations Committee, then on to the Assembly Floor, before heading to the Senate for a similar process.

CalCPA is proud to support Assembly Bill 1175, authored by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin and sponsored by the California Board of Accountancy (CBA). You can read CalCPA’s letter here.

The changes outlined in the bill better align with market needs and consumer demands and will help ensure the profession remains a trusted voice and provider of consumer services. Importantly, this is achieved while maintaining essential consumer protection provisions.

Demand for CPA services continues to rise, yet the number of candidates entering the profession remains flat while the number of those retiring from the profession is increasing. This growing gap puts pressure on current CPAs, affects client service and ultimately impacts the public interest.

To address these challenges, stakeholders across the country—including CalCPA and the CBA—are working to attract and retain more CPA candidates by reducing barriers without compromising the profession’s integrity.

AB 1175 is the product of more than a year of thoughtful work by the CBA. It would allow aspiring CPAs to earn a bachelor’s degree with an accounting concentration, pass the CPA Exam and complete two years of general accounting experience—with the option to substitute a qualifying master’s degree or certificate for up to one year of experience. This flexible approach gives candidates multiple affordable options toward licensure.

To support these changes and minimize disruptions for consumers and those working in the profession, AB 1175 also updates and strengthens CPA interstate practice privileges that support CPA mobility across state borders. These updates enable CPAs to serve clients and meet consumer needs effectively and efficiently across state lines.

Lastly, AB 1175’s modernization approach is already influencing similar efforts in other states and is proposed for inclusion in the Uniform Accountancy Act—positioning California as a national leader in shaping the future of CPA licensure, expanding career pathways and meeting evolving consumer needs.

If passed, AB 1175’s mobility provisions would take effect Jan. 1, 2026, with licensure updates following on July 1, 2026.

You can find out more information about the development of AB 1175 on the CBA’s website.