architecture group takes stand on controversial licensing issue

The largest professional organization in the architecture industry has issued a declaration condemning the state-oriented de-licensing movement.
 
In Where We Stand, the Washington-based American Institute of Architects says there has been a “troubling trend among a growing number of states to roll back licensing requirements for a host of professions, including architecture.”
 
The statement notes that there have been “roll back licensure” efforts in more than two dozen states.
 
Those states, says the AIA, often see professional licensure review committees formed to push through the least restrictive regulations for architects that are then ratified at either the executive or legislative level.
 
“The essential purpose of licensing architects is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public and shield consumers from unqualified practitioners,” said Carl Elefante, the president of AIA, in a statement.
 
“This is a responsibility our profession fully accepts and takes quite seriously,” Elefante continued, vowing to fight all such ongoing and future de-licensing efforts.
 
Proponents of de-licensing have contended that the licensing process is too cumbersome and stifles competition.
 
With a membership of more than 90,000 people, all of whom are licensed architects and associated professionals, the AIA has additionally signaled its ongoing support for state licensing boards which, it says, regulates the profession by setting “requirements for architectural education, experience, and examination.”

By Garry Boulard