SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6485

              As Passed Senate, February 8, 1996

Title:  An act relating to the registration of architects.

Brief Description:  Registering architects.

Sponsors:  Senators Wojahn and Hale.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Labor, Commerce & Trade:  1/31/96, 2/1/96 [DP].

Passed Senate, 2/8/96, 45-1.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR, COMMERCE & TRADE

Majority Report:  Do pass.

  Signed by Senators Pelz, Chair; Heavey, Vice Chair; A. Anderson, Deccio, Franklin, Fraser, McDonald, Newhouse and Wojahn.

Staff:  Erika Lim (786-7488)

Background:  To obtain an architect's license, an applicant must pass an examination and have (1) a degree in architecture and three years' work experience, with at least two of those years under the supervision of an architect; (2) at least eight years' work experience approved by the board, with at least four of those years under the direct supervision of an architect; or (3) eight years' experience in designing buildings as a principal activity without registering as an architect.

Summary of Bill:  In addition to having either a degree in architecture and three years' work experience or eight years' work experience, an applicant must have completed the requirements of a structured intern training program approved by the board.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Testimony For:  Washington is one of eight states that does not require an internship as a requirement to be a registered architect.  This affects Washington architects' ability to receive a reciprocal registration from other states.  Also, an internship program better prepares applicants to enter the profession because they are exposed to all aspects of the profession.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  Michael Krause, Gary Chandler, AIA Washington Council (pro); Norm Johnston, Architect Registration Board (pro).