Manley Bill Becomes Law, Recognized by Illinois CPASociety

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:

Obtaining a bachelor’s degree in accounting, at least two years of relevant work

experience, and the passage of the Uniform CPA Exam; or

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.

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