House Bill 458 Summary

• Repeals the existing Chapter 3, Title 54 Idaho Code and replaces it with a comprehensive new Idaho Architecture Practice Act establishing licensure requirements and regulations for architects.

• Creates a Board of Architectural Examiners consisting of 6 members (5 architects with 5+ years Idaho practice experience and 1 public member) appointed by the governor to oversee licensing, discipline, and rule-making.

• Requires all persons practicing architecture to obtain a separate license under their own name; exempts certain activities including residential projects under 3 units, farm buildings, and work by licensed engineers or certified consultants.

• Establishes licensure requirements including passage of the Architectural Registration Examination (ARE) and completion of an architectural experience program; allows licensure by endorsement for architects licensed in other states.

• Authorizes the board to impose discipline including license denial, suspension (up to 2 years), revocation, probation, and fines up to $2,000 per violation for fraud, incompetence, criminal conviction, or violations of the practice act; permits injunctive actions against unlicensed practice.