FICPA celebrates unanimous committee approval as SB 160 sets the stage for a transformative overhaul in Florida’s accounting industry, something that many actually want

Tallahassee, Florida — The Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA) is celebrating a significant legislative milestone as Senate Bill 160 (SB 160) successfully passed its second committee stop in the Florida Senate. Sponsored by Senator Joe Gruters, a CPA himself, the bill aims to modernize the profession’s licensing structure, ensuring Florida remains competitive in the accounting industry.

The bill’s latest success came on Wednesday when it was reviewed by the Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government. The committee gave SB 160 unanimous approval, marking another step forward for FICPA’s legislative priorities. With two successful committee approvals, the bill now moves to its final stop in the Senate Rules Committee.

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A legislative push for CPA reform

The 2025 Florida Legislative Session officially kicked off on Tuesday with the usual ceremonial formalities, including remarks from Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Danny Perez. Shortly after, lawmakers got to work, with key bills—including SB 160—advancing through the legislative process.

For the FICPA, SB 160 represents a crucial effort to streamline CPA licensure and mobility. The bill introduces new pathways to becoming a CPA in Florida, making it more accessible while maintaining the rigorous standards of the profession. Additionally, it enhances mobility for out-of-state CPAs, allowing licensed professionals from other states to practice in Florida with fewer bureaucratic hurdles.

According to FICPA Chief External Affairs Officer Jason Harrell, who testified in favor of the bill during Wednesday’s committee hearing, this bill is about ensuring Florida remains an attractive place for CPAs to work, grow, and contribute to our economy. He added that modernizing licensure while preserving the integrity of the profession is key to maintaining a strong pipeline of accountants in the state.

Momentum grows as session heats up

With the 2025 session set to run for 60 days, momentum is critical for any bill hoping to make it across the finish line. The early success of SB 160 positions it well for final Senate approval, after which it will need to clear the House of Representatives.

The House companion bill, HB 133, is still awaiting its first committee hearing, but FICPA’s legislative team is closely monitoring its progress. If both bills align and pass through their respective chambers, Florida’s CPA profession could see its most significant regulatory update in years.

Wider legislative impacts on CPAs

Beyond SB 160, the FICPA is tracking a variety of bills that could impact accountants statewide. More than 1,800 bills have already been filed this session, with key proposals affecting tax law, audit requirements, and professional licensure regulations. Among them:

• 137 tax-related bills, many of which could be bundled into Florida’s annual tax package.
• 64 proposals seeking to alter audit requirements for CPAs.
• 226 bills addressing professional licensure, reflecting the Legislature’s heightened focus on regulated industries.

Additionally, new legislation concerning condominium associations is under close watch, as changes to financial reporting and reserve requirements could have direct implications for CPAs working in that sector.

What’s next?

SB 160’s next and final stop in the Senate is the Rules Committee, which must clear it before it reaches the full chamber for a vote. If successful, the bill will then move to the House for consideration alongside HB 133.

For Florida’s CPAs, this legislation represents a long-awaited opportunity to modernize and simplify the licensure process. With strong bipartisan support and momentum on its side, SB 160 is well on its way to becoming law.

FICPA’s advocacy team remains engaged as the session progresses, ensuring that the interests of the accounting profession remain front and center in Florida’s legislative landscape.

More details can be found here.