Pennsylvania is on the brink of reshaping how future CPAs can enter the profession. On Jun. 26, the state House of Representatives unanimously approved legislation creating an additional licensure path, offering more flexibility to the traditional 150-hour route. Accounting Today reports that the bill now heads to Governor Josh Shapiro’s desk for his signature. 

Previously, on Jun. 11, the legislation was passed in the Pennsylvania Senate with broad partisan support before it moved to the House.

Backed by Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs, the bill allows candidates to qualify with 120 credit hours, two years of relevant experience, and a passing score on the CPA Exam. It also preserves interstate mobility so out-of-state CPAs in good standing can still practice in Pennsylvania. 

PICPA president Jennifer Cryder called the change a critical step for the profession, one that broadens access and helps attract a new generation of accountants. “The future is so bright—we’re excited that the profession has come together to make this change to provide more access for candidates coming into accounting,” she said 

Once signed, Pennsylvania will be the first state to have the updated licensure pathway take immediate effect, even as New York, Illinois, and Minnesota have passed similar laws in recent weeks.