STATE BOARD REPORT DRIVING PROGRESS NEW RULES & STATE BOARD LEADERSHIP AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL BY DAN SWEETWOOD, NEBRASKA BOARD OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTANCY IN THIS EDITION OF THE STATE BOARD REPORT, WE SPOTLIGHT the Nebraska Board of Public Accountancy’s recent efforts to advance new education rules aimed at enhancing flexibility for CPA candidates, as well as the remarkable contributions of its members who play vital roles on the national stage. From shaping future regulations to actively engaging with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), State Board members exemplify leadership and dedication to the profession. NEW EDUCATION RULES At its meeting on Nov. 21, the State Board advanced proposed regulations to complement the recent amendments to the Nebraska Public Accountancy Act. The amendments, approved earlier this year, allow candidates planning to sit for the CPA examination to begin the process after completing 120 credit hours of education with a bachelor’s degree, effective Jan. 1, 2025. Previously, candidates were required to have 150 credit hours to begin the examination. The State Board aims to provide greater flexibility by reducing the semester hour requirements, while leaving the responsibility for determining the best approach to accounting education to educators. For more information on the proposed regulations, go to https://bit.ly/NERuleChanges. These regulations will be submitted to the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office and the Governor’s Policy Research Office for review and final approval. If you have any questions regarding the proposed regulations, please contact the State Board office at (402) 471-3595 or email dan.sweetwood@nebraska.gov or kristen.vanwinkle@nebraska.gov. STATE BOARD MEMBERS ACTIVE NATIONALLY State Board members play a crucial role when they join the Board, taking on a range of important responsibilities. These duties include serving on various committees, attending disciplinary hearings, and making decisions that can significantly impact individuals’ careers. Board members also participate in six meetings each year, where they receive updates, ask questions, and provide valuable feedback. Their decisions not only help protect the public but also shape and refine the regulatory framework for the CPA profession. In short, they dedicate their time and expertise, volunteering to support the profession. CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 13 nescpa.org
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