HI SCR37

Department of Accounting and General Services requested to study the costs and benefits of creating an Office of the State Architect within the department to centralize design review and approval for state construction projects.

Study would analyze requiring a State Architect to review all plans and specifications for state projects, ensure compliance with building codes and construction standards, and assign inspectors to observe construction work.

Design approvals would apply to traditional design-bid-build projects but not design-build or public-private partnership projects.

Study must examine costs of employing architects and engineers, fees to charge state agencies for design review services, and staffing needs including a full-time State Architect position.

Report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation due to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the Regular Session of 2027.