Manley Bill Becomes Law, Recognized by Illinois CPA Society

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – State Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, earned recognition for her pivotal role in passing legislation recently signed into law that expands the process for certified public accountants (CPAs) to become licensed in Illinois.

Manley’s House Bill 2459 creates new pathways for aspiring CPAs to achieve licensure, and options for out-of-state CPAs to work in Illinois. The legislation was featured in the Summer 2025 edition of the Illinois CPA Society’s magazine, Insight, in an article by Geoffrey Brown titled “A Pathway for All.” Brown recognized Manley’s key role in the bill’s passage as the Chief bill sponsor and further stated, “the Illinois General Assembly was instrumental in advancing this important initiative for the accounting profession in our state and ensuring its readiness for the future.”

“Our CPAs provide crucial services and critical guidance that many of our residents rely on during tax season,” said Manley. “House Bill 2459 fixes some of the barriers for residents that want to become a CPA and establishes a pathway for non-resident CPAs to work in Illinois.”

The legislation was signed into law August 15 and goes into effect January 1, 2026. The law will allow CPA applicants to become licensed through two new paths:

1. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree in accounting, at least two years of relevant work experience, and the passage of the Uniform CPA Exam; or
2. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree with 30 hours of accounting coursework, at least one year of relevant work experience, and passage of the Uniform CPA Exam.

Additionally, the bill provides a pathway for out-of-state CPAs in good standing who meet Illinois requirements to gain licensure. Manley’s initiative helps streamline the licensing process, address workforce shortages, and ensure Illinois remains a leader for accounting professionals.

Manley is the Vice Chair of the Financial Institutions and Licensing Committee.