HB235 Enrolled is a comprehensive bill that updates the regulations governing the practice of architecture in Alabama. It revises the Alabama Board for Registration of Architects' duties, including the removal of the $250 cap on application fees and the introduction of a public rulemaking process for fee establishment. The bill authorizes the board to contract with independent testing agencies for examinations and allows applicants to demonstrate qualifications through education, experience, and examination as endorsed by NCARB. It also changes the certificate of registration renewal process, introduces emeritus status for certain retired architects, and expands the board's disciplinary powers, including the ability to issue cease and desist letters and increase administrative fines for violations. The bill makes it unlawful for anyone to use an architect's seal on documents not prepared under their responsible control.

Furthermore, HB235 revises the penalty structure for architectural regulation violations, increasing the maximum civil penalty to $5,000 per day, with a total cap of $25,000 per violation. It updates the requirements and fees for entities practicing architecture and specifies the nominating process for board members, allowing for virtual or mail-in ballot committee meetings. The bill also streamlines administrative procedures, such as removing the requirement for board members to receive a certificate of appointment from the Governor and allowing virtual board sessions. It grants the board financial autonomy, including setting fees and using surplus funds for educational purposes, and waives fees to attract architects to Alabama. The bill repeals the annual report requirement and subjects the board to the Alabama Sunset Law for periodic review. The effective date of the bill is October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34-2-30, 34-2-33, 34-2-34, 34-2-35, 34-2-36, 34-2-37, 34-2-38, 34-2-39, 34-2-40, 34-2-41
Engrossed: 34-2-33, 34-2-34, 34-2-35, 34-2-36, 34-2-37, 34-2-38, 34-2-39, 34-2-40, 34-2-41, 34-2-42, 34-2-43
Enrolled: 34-2-33, 34-2-34, 34-2-35, 34-2-36, 34-2-37, 34-2-38, 34-2-39, 34-2-40, 34-2-41, 34-2-42, 34-2-43