NCACPA joined with other state CPA societies across the country and the AICPA to encourage support for legislation recognizing accounting as a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) field. The letter, sent to leadership in both chambers of Congress, requests co-sponsorship of bipartisan, bicameral legislation – H.R.3541, the STEM Accounting Pursuit Act and S.1705, the STEM Education in Accounting Act.
These companion bills would allow accounting programs access to existing STEM K-12 grant funding for accounting awareness and education and would help to strengthen the accounting pipeline.
Last spring, NCACPA leaders went to Capitol Hill to discuss this legislation with members of Congress. Six North Carolina lawmakers signed on as cosponsors of the bills. They are Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC-12), Rep. Don Davis (D-NC-1), Rep. Valerie Foushee (D-NC-4), Rep. Kathy Manning (D-NC-6), and Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC-2).
“Technology is rapidly transforming our industry, demanding a new generation of accounting professionals skilled in both financial expertise and technological prowess,” said NCACPA Chair Dr. Courtney Knoll. “Designating accounting as a STEM field under Technology would help the profession address this challenge and build a stronger accounting talent pipeline.”
The letter notes the decline in the number of U.S. students who completed a bachelor’s degree in accounting and the knowledge gap that most high school students have about a career in accounting. It also highlights the need to increase access to high-quality accounting courses for students through grade 12 who are members of underrepresented groups.
NCACPA has supported and joined in previous efforts by the AICPA and other state CPA societies to recognize accounting as a STEM field and will continue to advocate on this important pipeline initiative.
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE ON THIS ISSUE
Contact Senator Tillis and your Representative today and urge them to cosponsor these bills. As a respected CPA and constituent, your voice carries significant weight. Together, we can shape the future of accounting and ensure our profession continues to thrive in the years to come.
If you have questions about this issue or other policy matters, please contact NCACPA Director of Advocacy Robert Broome, CAE.