HB2399 Summary: Illinois Architecture Practice Act Amendments

• Changes regulatory references from "Director of Professional Regulation" to "Secretary of the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation" throughout the Act.

• Increases civil penalties for unlicensed practice from $5,000 to $10,000 per violation and allows penalty flexibility for applicants who fail to apply within one year if the Department determines sufficient cause exists.

• Creates new "Architect, Retired" status allowing retired architects to use this title without an active license and permits restoration to active status under applicable provisions.

• Modifies roster availability requirements to allow requesters to obtain architect listings organized by discipline upon request without requiring written requests.

• Adds authority for the Secretary and Board members to administer oaths and conduct examinations, and clarifies provisions regarding discipline, suspension, and restoration of licenses based on physical/mental fitness and substance abuse issues.