Pictured above: SB26-076 sponsors Rep. Rebekah Stewart and Rep. Chris Richardson at the House Business Affairs & Labor Committee on March 25

Senate Bill 26-076, Colorado’s CPA licensure modernization legislation, has advanced out of the House Business Affairs and Labor Committee and now moves to the full House for consideration. This marks another key milestone in the legislative process, bringing the bill one step closer to final approval.

What Happened

The House Business Affairs and Labor Committee voted 12–0 to advance SB26-076 following committee review and discussion.

The bill previously passed the Senate unanimously, reflecting strong bipartisan support for expanding pathways to CPA licensure while maintaining the standards that define the profession.

Following committee approval, the bill has been referred for consideration by the full House, where all members will have the opportunity to review and debate the legislation.

Advocacy in Action

This progress reflects strong collaboration between COCPA, legislative sponsors, and members of the profession.

COCPA CEO Alicia Gelinas, Alex Romero, and CMU student member Nicole Garcia provided testimony in support of the bill, sharing insights on workforce challenges and the need for more flexible pathways to licensure.

Their perspectives helped reinforce the importance of modernizing licensure while maintaining professional standards.

We also recognize bill sponsors Rep. Rebekah Stewart and Rep. Chris Richardson for their leadership in advancing this legislation through the House.

What This Means

With committee review complete, SB26-076 now moves into the next stage of the House process.

During this phase, lawmakers will consider the bill on the House floor before determining whether it should receive final approval in the chamber. While amendments remain possible, most detailed review typically occurs at the committee level.

Continued progress signals strong momentum behind efforts to modernize licensure pathways and address workforce challenges facing the accounting profession.

“We're thrilled to see strong bipartisan support and a unanimous vote recognizing the CPA profession’s vital role in strengthening our local economies. While there is more work ahead, this moment marks a meaningful milestone—reflecting years of collaboration, strong legislative relationships, and the support of our PAC donors. It’s a powerful example of what can be achieved when CPAs unite with a shared purpose and actively engage in the process. We remain committed to the work ahead and are energized to carry this momentum forward as we see this initiative through.”

Alicia Gelinas, CPA, CEO of COCPA

What’s Next

SB26-076 will be taken up by the full House for floor consideration in the coming days. If approved, the bill will move to the Governor for signature.

COCPA will continue to monitor scheduling and provide updates as the bill progresses toward a final vote. If engagement becomes helpful as the bill approaches that stage, we will share clear guidance and simple tools to participate.

For more information on the licensure pathways and what this legislation means, visit the Licensure Pathways page.

Supporting Advocacy That Moves the Profession Forward. Progress like SB26-076 is made possible through ongoing advocacy and strong relationships with policymakers. The CPA-PAC supports legislative candidates who understand the profession’s priorities and helps ensure the CPA voice is represented. Learn more about CPA-PAC & help make a difference by donating →