Colorado Society of CPAs · Advocacy

A Modernized Pathway to CPA Licensure in Colorado

CPA Licensure Modernization (SB26-076) creates flexible, experience-based routes to obtain a CPA license — addressing Colorado's growing accounting workforce shortage while preserving the rigorous standards that make CPAs trusted advisors.

COCPA has championed this legislation and will share updates as it advances through the General Assembly.

ACTIVE LEGISLATION — 2026 SESSION
Bill status

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Introduced

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Senate committee (unanimous)

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Full Senate passed

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House committee

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Full House vote

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Governor Signed Into Law May 2026

Why This Matters For Colorado

Address the workforce shortage

Around 75% of currently licensed CPAs are approaching retirement age, while accounting program enrollments have declined sharply. This bill broadens access to qualified professionals.

Reduce cost barriers for candidates

The additional 30 credit hours can cost $9,000–$15,000 at public universities — more at private institutions. The new pathway offers an experience-based alternative.

Help firms serve more clients

Colorado firms are being forced to turn away clients due to staffing shortages. A broader pipeline means more capacity for businesses and communities that depend on CPA services.

Keep Colorado competitive

More than 25 states have already modernized their CPA licensure requirements. This keeps Colorado in step with the national trend and preserves CPA mobility across state lines.

Legislative Updates from COCPA's Blog

CPA Licensure Modernization Signed Into Law

Advocacy
Colorado has signed SB26-076 into law, modernizing CPA licensure pathways while maintaining standards. Learn what’s…
Profile

Cole Buerger

SB26-076, Expanding Pathways to CPA Licensure, Passes Colorado Legislature, Now on the Road to the Governor’s Desk

Advocacy
The Colorado General Assembly has passed SB26-076, marking a major step forward in modernizing CPA licensure in Colorado.…
Profile

Cole Buerger

Licensure Modernization Bill Advances from House Committee, Heads to Full House

Advocacy
SB26-076, Colorado’s CPA Licensure Modernization bill, has advanced out of the House Business Affairs and Labor Committee…
Profile

Cole Buerger
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Questions?

To learn more about COCPA's advocacy efforts, contact Cole Buerger, Director of Government Relations & Advocacy: cole@cocpa.org | 303-261-8256