RED Alert- Virginia

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March 2010

Amended bill will not impact interior designers

HB 1265, a bill that would have changed the architects' law to limit members of the Board of Directors of ALL interior design firms (including those who are not required to be "licensed") to a maximum of one out of three (1/3) unlicensed members has been amended. As originally written, this law appeared to have the consequence of regulating all interior design corporations, tying their hands as to who they may have on their Board, directly resulting in how their firm conducts business.

However, after receiving many phone calls and emails initiated by IDPC's February 15th newsflash, the legislature has edited the language to ensure that this amended law will apply ONLY to the board of directors of a business providing certified interior design services.

The amended version has now passed the House and Senate and has been sent to the Governor for signature.

CONGRATULATIONS!

YOUR BUSINESS WILL NOT BE IMPACTED!

February 2010

Virginia SB1265 to be clarified

Many thanks to IDPC supporters who responded to our request to contact the members of the Commerce and Labor Committee regarding the confusing and restrictive language in SB 1265. This morning, we have been advised that the voice of IDPC and our supporters has been heard (click here to read Dept. of Professional and Occupational Regulation talking points, emphasis ours) and that the amendment was only intended to apply to "professional" corporations made up of Certified Interior Designers.

Our concerns were justified and we remain optimistic that, as has been indicated, they will be addressed and that the law will ultimately apply only to Certified Interior Designers.

SB 1265 has been sent back to Legislative Services to review the objectionable language. We will continue to monitor this issue to ensure that the matter is clarified and that there is no question as to the applicability of the provision to non-Certified Interior Designers, and that it will not affect your ability to appoint Board Members of your choosing, as you deem to be most beneficial to conducting your own business.