HB4715 Summary

• Expands the definition of "practice of registered interior design" to include preparation of documents relating to building code descriptions and project egress plans that require no increase in exit capacity, while explicitly excluding structural alterations, building envelope changes, mechanical/plumbing/electrical systems, and changes affecting fire safety systems.

• Requires all registered interior designers to obtain and affix a reproducible seal containing their name, registration number, signature, current date, and expiration date to interior technical submissions used as contract documents or submitted for governmental approval.

• Establishes continuing education requirements of at least 10 hours every 2 years in health, safety, and welfare areas for renewal or reinstatement of registration.

• Allows architects to qualify for registered interior designer registration without examination upon proof of active Illinois architectural license and payment of required fee.

• Increases maximum civil penalties for violations from $5,000 to $10,000 per violation and adds new disciplinary grounds including negligence, incompetence, misconduct, habitual substance abuse, and signing/sealing work not prepared under responsible control.