Relating to certified public accountants

Updated definitions to clarify terms like 'Affiliated entity' and 'Compilation services' by adding 'or' to lists and correcting phrasing to align with current professional standards.

Reorganized the education, examination, and experience requirements section to use clearer lettered sub-points (A, B, C) instead of numbered lists, improving readability without changing the core criteria.

Removed the specific requirement for a 'substantially equivalent foreign designation' from the list of qualifications for issuing certificates to out-of-state applicants.

Revised the list of unlawful acts to explicitly include 'contingent fees' in the prohibited fee practices and clarified restrictions on using titles that imply licensure.

Updated the bill's effective date references and removed a specific exemption for individuals who passed the CPA exam before January 1, 2012, simplifying the transition rules.

Changed the bill's stated purpose to remove references to clarifying 'substantial equivalency practice privileges' and 'issuance of certificates to out-of-state applicants,' indicating a shift in legislative focus.

The definition of 'firm' was updated to require that the primary business activity be the provision of professional services to the public by certified public accountants or public accountants.

New definitions were added for 'substantial equivalency,' 'substantial equivalency practitioner,' 'foreign,' 'home office,' 'individual practitioner,' 'licensee,' 'nonlicensee,' 'out-of-state certificate,' 'out-of-state permit,' 'peer review,' 'principal place of business,' 'professional services,' 'public accountant,' 'referral fee,' 'registration,' 'report,' 'rule,' 'state,' and 'Uniform Accountancy Act.'

New provisions were added to allow the board to issue certificates to applicants holding valid foreign designations in public accountancy if they meet specific reciprocity and education/experience requirements.

New provisions were added to grant practice privileges to out-of-state accountants who hold valid certificates as of December 31, 2025, or meet specific education and experience requirements, allowing them to practice without obtaining a West Virginia certificate.

The rule-making authority section was updated to include new topics such as firm ownership requirements, substantial equivalency practice privileges, and the use of specific titles and fees.