Louisiana House Bill HB305

Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/22
• Refer: 3/2/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 4/18/22
• Engrossed: 4/27/22
• Refer: 4/28/22
• Report Pass: 5/11/22
• Enrolled: 5/18/22
• Chaptered: 5/25/22
• Passed: 5/25/22

Caption

Provides relative to the Louisiana Professional Engineering and Land Surveying Board

Impact

The passage of HB 305 has resulted in modifications to the existing frameworks governing the roles and responsibilities of architects and engineers in Louisiana. The bill sets specific limits on the occupant load that can be managed under this incidental work provision. By stipulating a maximum proposed occupant load of 299 for assembly occupancy and 49 for other types, the legislation ensures that architects maintain safety protections while facilitating more flexible planning and construction practices that do not necessitate full engineering oversight for smaller projects.

Summary

House Bill 305, enacted in Louisiana, specifically addresses the intersection of architectural and engineering practices. It allows architects to engage in incidental engineering activities that are secondary to their primary architectural practice. The bill outlines that such engineering work must be minor in scope and magnitude, including tasks related to mechanical, electrical, or civil-structural engineering, as long as these activities do not jeopardize public safety. This provision is designed to clarify the type of incidental engineering work architects are permitted to perform without needing separate licensure as engineers.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 305 appears to be largely supportive, as it addresses the ongoing need for clarity in professional roles within construction and design. Proponents of the bill express that it empowers architects by enabling them to take on additional responsibilities, thus allowing for more comprehensive project management without the administrative burden of acquiring additional licensure. This shift is seen as a positive move towards promoting efficiency in the design and construction process.

Contention

Despite the general support for HB 305, some concerns were raised regarding the safety implications of allowing architects to perform certain engineering tasks. Critics argue that incidental engineering, even if minor, could potentially lead to gaps in safety if architects are not adequately trained or if the work exceeds simple tasks. However, the bill’s proponents address these concerns by emphasizing the stringent conditions imposed, which aim to ensure that all incidental work is performed safely and competently.