HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

                     HB 2633

Brief Description:  Registering structural engineers.

Sponsors:  Representatives Chandler B. and O'Brien

Hearing:  January 26, 2000

                 Brief Summary of Bill

$Modifying  the registration requirements for structural engineers.

BACKGROUND:

Structural engineering is the branch of engineering involved with the design, analysis, and construction of  buildings and structures.  Structural engineers are regulated by the engineers and land surveyor's chapter.

Prior to 1997, applicants for a structural engineering registration were first required to meet the requirements for the general engineering registration, which was eight years engineering experience and passing two exams.  Up to five years of education in engineering could be granted toward the eight years of experience.  In addition, applicants had to have two years structural engineering experience and pass an additional exam on structural engineering. 

In 1997, it was realized that these rules were beyond the authority given by statute.  So the rules for structural engineers were changed.  The new rules require applicants to have eight years of structural engineering experience, or equivalent education.  Applicants may substitute one year of engineering education for each year of experience, up to four years.  A fifth year may be substituted with structural engineering postgraduate work.  Applicants must also pass two exams given at least six months apart.  One exam is specific to structural engineering.

SUMMARY OF BILL:

The requirements for registering as a structural engineer are changed.  The pre-1997 rules are adopted.  A person qualifying to register as a structural engineer must have eight years of general engineering experience plus two years of structural engineering experience.  Course work can substitute for up to five years of experience, but not for the two years of structural engineering experience. 

Applicants must also pass a specific structural engineering exam in addition to the two given for the general engineering registration.

RULES AUTHORITY:  The bill does not contain provisions addressing the rule making powers of an agency.

FISCAL NOTE:  Not requested.

EFFECTIVE DATE:  Ninety days after adjournment of a session in which bill is passed.