Protect your Seal from Fraud and Misuse

Contacting legislators about HB 1180 is important because licensure is the foundation of public trust in our profession. This bill strengthens enforcement of the Maryland Architects Act by ensuring that serious violations and misrepresentation of credentials are addressed consistently. Legislators need to hear directly from licensed architects about why the integrity of the architect’s seal matters—not just to our firms, but to the health, safety, and welfare of the communities we serve. When policymakers hear from practicing professionals, it reinforces that this legislation protects the public and supports responsible architectural practice across Maryland.

MD2026HB 1180

State Board of Architects - Grounds for Discipline - Requirements

Last Action

Favorable with Amendments Report by Economic Matters

House • Mar 16, 2026

Latest Version

Text - First - State Board of Architects - Grounds for Discipline - Requirements

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Your Message to the legislators

Dear (name and title inserted automatically),

I am writing in support of HB1180, legislation that strengthens enforcement authority under the Maryland Architects Act and reinforces protections for public health, safety, and welfare.

HB1180 makes several important clarifications to existing law that are both measured and necessary.

First, the bill changes the State Board of Architects’ disciplinary authority from permissive (“may”) to mandatory (“shall”) when fraud or deceptive misrepresentation of licensure is proven. This amendment ensures that enforcement is consistent and predictable when individuals fraudulently obtain, misuse, or misrepresent architectural licensure. Accountability should not depend on discretion when public safety is implicated.

Second, HB1180 explicitly includes fraudulent misrepresentation that an individual holds a license or permit as grounds for discipline. This clarification closes a gap in enforcement and directly addresses bad actors who falsely present themselves as licensed architects.

Third, the bill requires the Board to notify county code officials when a license is suspended or revoked. This creates a clear communication pathway between the State and local jurisdictions, helping prevent continued practice by individuals whose credentials are no longer valid.

Finally, the bill requires code officials to verify that the architect’s seal and license correspond to the individual submitting architectural documents for permitting. This safeguard strengthens integrity at the point of permit review and ensures that the professional responsible for the work is properly licensed.

Importantly, HB1180 does not create new permitting delays or impose unfunded mandates on local jurisdictions. Rather, it clarifies enforcement expectations and reinforces existing public protection standards.

Licensed architects complete rigorous education, examination, and experience requirements before earning the privilege to practice. The architectural seal represents professional accountability. When misrepresentation goes unchecked, it undermines both consumer confidence and compliant practitioners.

HB1180 is a focused, reasonable measure that strengthens enforcement, protects the public, and upholds the integrity of professional licensure in Maryland.

I respectfully urge a favorable report and a YES vote on HB1180.

Thank you for your consideration.