Bill Would Designate Accounting as STEM in New Jersey

On Feb. 12, New Jersey Assemblyman Sterley Stanley introduced Assembly Bill 4236, which designates accounting as a science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) subject for purposes of state aid. The New Jersey Society of CPAs worked with Assemblyman Stanley on this bill which is intended to open access to accounting education and make students and the public aware that, in today’s business environment, accounting is definitely STEM. Assemblyman Stanley is a tireless advocate for the CPA profession and is the same legislator who introduced and shepherded the additional CPA pathway bill into law in January. A4236 must now go through the same process.

The common perception of the accounting profession as a number-based profession of financial recordkeeping and analysis is outdated. The modern accounting profession is also a technology field that includes IT, cybersecurity and other technology-related services. These services drive efficiency, enhance accuracy, provide deeper insights into financial performance, optimize business processes, manage risks and ensure compliance in a technologically driven business environment. Recognizing accounting as a STEM discipline acknowledges its heavy reliance on technology, its strong foundation in mathematics and statistics, and its focus on problem-solving and critical thinking.

This bill would amend statutory law to designate accounting as a STEM subject. STEM is referenced in law in regard to various state programs including:

• A grant program to provide eligible teachers additional remuneration to teach STEM classes at nonpublic schools
• The Accessing Careers in Engineering and Science (ACES) Program to increase participation of unrepresented students in STEM fields and develop a more diverse STEM workforce
• A loan redemption program for teachers who teach STEM classes
• A tuition reimbursement program for teachers of STEM subjects
• A grant program to support funding for adult apprenticeship programs in high-growth industries including STEM

We will provide updates as the bill progresses through the legislative process. 

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Jeffrey Kaszerman Jeff is the vice president of government relations for the NJCPA. He works with the CEO and the Board of Trustees to create and implement advocacy initiatives that protect and promote the interests of the CPA profession, the business community and the public. More content by Jeffrey Kaszerman: Meet the Legislator Who Stewarded the CPA Pathway Bill to Victory New Jersey’s New Pathway to CPA Licensure: What You Need to Know 4 Big Regulatory Issues Impacting CPAs Breaking Down New Jersey’s Election Results New Jersey Property Tax Relief: The Clock Is Ticking Understanding New Jersey’s Record-High Budget Bringing New Jersey’s Financial Picture into Focus A Multifaceted Approach to Address the Accountant Shortage Learn more from Jeffrey Kaszerman: 3/24/26 - IssuesWatch Live: New Jersey Budget Analysis 3/30/26 - IssuesWatch Live: New Jersey Budget Analysis 6/16-19/26 - NJCPA Convention & Expo 1/14/27 - Corporate Accounting & Finance Interest Group Meeting & Technical Session: Professional Issues Update