OPPOSE

SB 1312 would create the Registered Interior Designers Committee within the jurisdiction of the California Architects Board (CAB). The committee will be responsible for the registration and regulation of those engaged in the practice of registered interior design as well as accreditation of interior design programs. The bill:

• Enacts various provisions regarding the practice of registered interior design. It includes practice requirements, registration requirements, condition of registration renewals, ground for revocation, and other disciplinary actions. 
• Prohibits a person from engaging in the practice of registering interior designs without permission. Violations of the act are considered misdemeanors, and will create a new crime for violation of the provisions.
• Certificate of registration requires payment of a fee, submission of proof of passage of examination prepared and administered by the National Council for Interior Design Qualifications and one of the following:
  • bachelor’s degree program in interior design with 3520 hours of interior design experience after the degree
  • or a bachelor’s degree in any major with no less than 60 semester hours in interior design and 3520 hours of experience after the degree program
  • Not less than 60 semester units culminating in a certificate, degree or diploma and 5,280 hours of interior design experience
  • Not less than 40 semester hours in interior design that culminates in a certificate, degree, or diploma and 7040 hours of interior design after the complete of the coursework

The League opposes SB 1312 because of the detrimental impact on the numerous community college interior design programs that educate and train students for interior design careers throughout California. Over 30 community colleges offer interior design programs approved by the Community College Chancellor’s office. Students that now graduate from these approved programs are employed in a variety of careers within interior design, including but not limited to, large and small design firms (interior, engineering, and architectural), product and furniture showrooms, large retail stores and as manufacturer representatives.  SB 1312 will have a devastating impact on the lives and careers of current and future students who attend community colleges, and will limit the field to those that can afford much costlier educational programs and lengthy apprenticeships.  SB 1312 is a bad and intrusive effort into the curricular standards of colleges. The work experience and education requirements of SB 1312 are onerous and at odds with educational programs intended to provide career education in a timely manner for our students.

Action Requested

The League is opposed to SB 1312 and requests immediate action letters of opposition be sent to Senator Yee at: Fax# 916-327-2186. In addition, please fax copies of your letter to your college district's senator. To find your college district's senator, click here.

Download Letter of Opposition Template (Word)

More Information:
Community College League of California, Legislative Office
1121 L Street, Ste. 805
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 441-0353 • (916) 441-0378 fax
E-mail: legofc@ccleague.org