Senator Patrick M. Gallivan, (R-C, Elma) says three bills recently signed into law by the governor will change rules and regulations facing certified public accountants, athletic trainers, and pharmacy technicians in New York. The three pieces of legislation amend state education law and Senator Gallivan co-sponsored each of them in the State Senate.

The first bill (S.6891B) reforms the education requirement for persons who want to become certified public accountants. Currently, CPA candidates must obtain 150 hours of higher education, or a master’s degree, one year of experience and passage of the CPA exam to obtain a license. The legislation allows candidates to instead earn a bachelor’s or 120-credit hours of education, with 2 years of relative experience.   

“This legislation helps address the shrinking pool of CPA’s both in New York and nationally,” Senator Gallivan said. “Other states have already adopted these changes, encouraging CPA students to leave New York for opportunities elsewhere. It also sends a message that licensed out-of-state CPA’s who have passed the uniform CPA exam are welcome in New York.”

The second bill (S.5275A) will allow licensed athletic trainers from other states to practice in New York when they are traveling for job-related purposes, such as a sporting event or performance. The law simply codifies the ability for trainers to perform their professional duties.

The final piece of legislation removes current limitations on the use of pharmacy technicians in New York. Under the new law, pharmacy technicians will be allowed to prepare, label, and dispense drugs in retail pharmacy settings under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. The change is expected to provide critical support to independent pharmacies.

Governor Hochul signed the three bills into law on November 21, 2025.

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