Learn about advocacy

Why Advocate?

CPAs are a highly regulated profession, governed by state laws that impact licensing, tax policies, and business operations. Legislative changes can directly affect CPAs, their organizations, and their clients. That's why advocacy is essential. By fostering strong relationships with legislators and state agencies in Lansing, we ensure that the CPA voice is heard on issues shaping the profession's future.
MICPA's advocacy efforts focus on protecting and advancing the profession by engaging with lawmakers, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders to promote policies that support CPAs and the those they serve.
Understanding the CPA Licensing Process

To effectively advocate for the profession, it’s important to understand the key players involved in CPA licensing and regulation in Michigan:

The Regulator
The Regulator:
Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)

LARA, through its Bureau of Professional Licensing, oversees professional licensing in Michigan, including issuing CPA licenses and enforcing penalties for noncompliance. 

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The Advisor
The Advisor:
Michigan State Board of Accountancy

This nine-member board provides guidance to LARA on the promulgation of administrative rules and penalties for CPAs. It consists of:

  • Six licensed CPAs
  • One accounting educator from an accredited college/university
  • Three public representatives, including an attorney

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The Advocate
The Advocate:
MICPA

As a nonprofit, voluntary membership organization, MICPA serves as the leading advocate for Michigan CPAs. Our role is to keep CPAs informed, engage in legislative discussions, and ensure that policies support the profession’s long-term success.

MICPA Political Action Committee (PAC)

Advocacy efforts require strong support, and the MICPA bipartisan PAC plays a crucial role in ensuring that the CPA perspective is represented in policy decisions. By contributing to the MICPA PAC, CPAs help educate and build relationships with legislators and support candidates who prioritize the profession’s interests.

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Advocacy in Action

Our advocacy initiatives have led to tangible results, including:

  • Additional CPA Licensure Pathway Legislation (HB 4893) – MICPA advocated for a nationally aligned, additional pathway to CPA licensure in Michigan through legislation introduced and heard in the Michigan House; the bill now advances into Senate committee for further consideration.
  • CPA Day at the Capitol – In 2025, MICPA organized a CPA Day in Lansing, bringing 70 members and students together to discuss profession-related issues with their legislators.
  • Michigan Flow-Through Entity Tax Bill (HB 5022) – MICPA, its members, and Michigan Treasury worked together to provide input, testimony and support for this bill which passed early in 2025 and addresses implementation challenges from earlier legislation.
  • Proposed Uniform Accountancy Act Updates for CPA Licensure – AICPA and NASBA introduced a third licensure pathway (bachelor’s degree + two years of experience + CPA Exam) and an interstate mobility model based on feedback from the MICPA, other state societies and all of our members.
Stay Informed & Get Involved

Advocacy is most effective when CPAs stay informed and engaged. Keep up with legislation impacting Michigan CPAs and learn how you can participate in advocacy efforts.

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