HI HCR81

Requests the Department of Accounting and General Services to study the costs and benefits of creating an Office of the State Architect within the department, headed by a full-time licensed architect.

The proposed office would centralize design review for all state construction projects, ensuring compliance with building codes and construction standards including electrical, energy conservation, plumbing, and sidewalk requirements.

Study must analyze costs of the State Architect reviewing all project plans, issuing design approvals for traditional design-bid-build projects, and assigning inspectors to observe construction work.

Study must examine costs of establishing 1.0 FTE State Architect position, additional staff positions, and fees to charge state agencies for design review services.

Department must submit findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the 2027 Regular Session.