Relating to: various changes to the laws governing the practice of accounting and modifying various administrative rules promulgated by the Accounting Examining Board relating to accounting.

AB 696 updates licensing requirements for certified public accountants (CPAs) in the state. It requires applicants to complete 150 semester hours of education (including accounting and business coursework) and gain work experience involving accounting, tax, or consulting skills, verified by the Accounting Examining Board. The bill also clarifies that out-of-state CPAs with equivalent licenses can continue practicing without reapplying, as long as they met prior requirements. These changes modify both statute law and administrative rules governing CPA licensure and education standards.