Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

Michigan Senate Bill SB0315

Introduced
5/2/23  

Caption

Occupations: architects, professional engineers, and surveyors; design builder; exempt from certain requirements of a firm. Amends sec. 2010 of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.2010). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0314'23

Impact

If enacted, SB0315 would significantly influence how firms in architecture, engineering, and surveying operate within Michigan. By enforcing stricter licensure standards, the bill aims to enhance public trust in professional services. Moreover, it will likely result in a more rigorous vetting process for firms, which could in turn lead to improved project outcomes and higher quality in professional practices. Firms will also now need to report detailed information about their principals to the department, enhancing transparency and regulatory oversight.

Summary

Senate Bill 315 (SB0315) seeks to amend the Occupational Code (1980 PA 299) regarding the practice of architecture, professional engineering, and professional surveying in Michigan. The bill stipulates that at least two-thirds of the principals in a firm engaging in these practices must be licensed professionals. This regulation is intended to ensure that firms maintain a high standard of professional integrity and competency in those fields. The legislation also introduces a requirement for non-licensed principals to apply for and receive approval from the pertinent department to operate legally in these professions, thereby establishing a system of accountability in professional services.

Contention

The proposed amendments in SB0315 have sparked discussions regarding the balance of regulation and professional freedom. Proponents of the bill argue that the measures will increase public safety and ensure that only qualified individuals can provide essential services, thus protecting consumers from potential malpractice. Conversely, critics may contend that these requirements could impose unnecessary burdens on smaller firms and deter non-licensed professionals from contributing to the industry, potentially stifling innovation and local business development. The legislative journey of this bill may involve debates over the appropriateness and feasibility of the proposed requirements.

Companion Bills

MI SB0314

Same As Construction: other; use of design-build constructing for certain school buildings; allow. Amends secs. 1, 1a & 2 of 1937 PA 306 (MCL 388.851 et seq.).

Previously Filed As

MI HB4604

Occupations: architects, professional engineers, and surveyors; design builder; exempt from certain requirements of a firm. Amends sec. 2010 of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.2010).

MI HB3253

Professions and occupations; State Architectural and Registered Commercial Interior Designers Act; State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors; modifying powers and duties; effective date.

MI HB2543

Relating to the licensing and regulation of architecture, engineering, landscape architecture, and land surveying by the Texas Board of Professional Services, the deregulation of interior design, and the abolition of the Texas Board of Professional Engineers, the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, and the Texas Board of Professional Land Surveyors.

MI HB3166

Relating to the licensing and regulation of architecture, engineering, interior design, landscape architecture, and land surveying by the Texas Board of Professional Services and the abolition of the Texas Board of Professional Engineers, the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, and the Texas Board of Professional Land Surveyors.

MI HB1329

Sunset Architects Engineers & Land Surveyors

MI SB499

Relating To Professional Engineers, Architects, Surveyors And Landscape Architects.

MI SB499

Relating To Professional Engineers, Architects, Surveyors And Landscape Architects.

MI SB1964

Professional engineers and land surveyors; clarifying use of engineers and surveyors. Effective date.

MI HB4603

Construction: other; use of design-build constructing for certain school buildings; allow. Amends secs. 1, 1a & 2 of 1937 PA 306 (MCL 388.851 et seq.).

MI HB320

Relating To Professional Engineers, Architects, Surveyors And Landscape Architects.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.