It’s 2026 — an even-numbered year — which means a short session for the Indiana Legislature. Think of it as a high-stakes sprint where critical professional regulations and tax laws can change in the blink of an eye. The session kicked off again in early January and wraps on February 27 following a two-week redistricting focused early start to the session in December. With such a hyper-condensed timeline, our advocacy team is laser-focused on everything impacting the CPA profession, and legislators are hustling through issues that can’t wait.
Here’s what we’re up to:
The 2026 INCPAS Legislative Agenda
Lead:
Our top priority? HB 1147, the licensure of CPAs bill. The bill doesn’t throw out what’s working; it builds on it. We’re keeping the tried-and-true 120-hour option to sit for the CPA Exam while opening a new door: candidates can sit for the CPA Exam once they complete a bachelor’s degree with an accounting concentration. Translation? This paves the way for accredited accounting degrees with less than 120 hours creating opportunity for faster entry and a stronger pipeline, all without lowering the high bar that the CPA profession is known for.
HB 1147 passed unanimously in the House on January 22 by a vote of 89-0 with no amendments. Sen. Linda Rogers will be the Senate sponsor of the bill and will guide it through the Senate in the second half of session. If history is a good indicator, we expect that HB 1147 will be assigned to the Senate Tax and Fiscal Policy committee, like our accountant licensure bill HEA 1143 (2025) was last session.
Engage:
We support effective oversight and regulation to enhance the value of the CPA license.
Our focus is always on ensuring the integrity and strength of the profession while exploring ideas that could enhance its future.
We protect the public trust while we push for real solutions: workforce development funding that strengthens accounting programs, expands internships/apprenticeships and scholarship opportunities, and helps fill the talent pipeline across public accounting, industry, and government.
Monitor:
We’re also tracking proposals that could impact Indiana CPAs and their clients, including:
- Sales tax on professional services.
- Federal tax conformity to give Indiana CPAs and taxpayers clear, consistent rules.
- Department of Revenue and Professional Licensing Agency system improvements.
- New ownership models like ESOPs and private equity.
- Cybersecurity and AI legislation.
- Broader licensing and rulemaking changes.
Behind the Scenes: How INCPAS Builds Its Agenda
Ever wonder how INCPAS decides which issues to champion? There’s no crystal ball, no guesswork, and no crossed fingers; it’s pure strategy. The Society uses a decision-making framework, developed by the INCPAS Advocacy Council, that weighs member input, industry trends and long-term impact. Every agenda item is carefully selected to protect and advance CPAs across Indiana. Want the details? Check out The Who, What & How Behind the Selection Process and Inside the Decision-Making Framework.
Legislative wins take time. They’re built through relationships, persistence and showing up year after year. INCPAS’s Government Relations team keeps CPA priorities front and center with lawmakers. And when CPAs speak up through emails, calls, or face-to-face meetings, legislators listen. That collective voice turns proposals into law. Review the full legislative agenda.
How You Can Make a Difference
Become a CPA Advocate
You don’t need to be a policy expert. Becoming a CPA Advocate means staying informed, connecting with your legislators and speaking up when it matters. Sign up here and join hundreds of Indiana CPAs making their voices heard.
Support the Indiana CPA-PAC
Advocacy takes a lot of voices, but it also requires money. The Indiana CPA-PAC supports candidates who champion CPA priorities, ensuring accountants have a seat at the table. Contribute to the Indiana CPA-PAC — every dollar amplifies the profession’s voice.
The Bottom Line
Legislative sessions come and go, but advocacy never stops. The work INCPAS does at the Statehouse protects your license, your profession and your ability to serve clients with confidence. Whether you sign up as an advocate, contribute to the Indiana CPA-PAC or simply stay informed, you’re part of something bigger. Together, Indiana CPAs have a powerful voice. Let’s keep using it!
