I am opposed to eliminating the licensure requirement for Landscape Architects and Certified Interior Designers in the Commonwealth.  Both Landscape Architects and Certified Interior Designers have an impact public health, safety, and welfare. Licensure is the most appropriate form of regulation to ensure that the public is adequately protected.  Licensure of Landscape Architects and Certified Interior Designers ensures that professionals are qualified by their education, experience, and examination. Licensed Landscape Architects and Certified Interior Designers fulfill rigorous educational training and examination requirements that prepare Landscape Architects and Certified Interior Designers to protect the public from both physical and monetary harm. Licensure as a measure of competence gives Virginia’s consumer’s confidence in identifying professionals for their design services.

The services provided by Landscape Architects can include such items as site plans, development plans, grading plans, stormwater and erosion control plans, and the siting of physical structures requiring the seal by a licensed professional.

Unlike Interior Decorators, the services provided by Certified Interior Designers through rigorous education know of complex local, state, national and international building codes, health and safety codes, and other applicable laws (e.g., the Americans with Disabilities Act).  Certified Interior Designers provide services that range from strategic planning through to construction documentation and administration, and selection of materials that are flame retardant to protect the public if a fire occurs.

I am opposed to eliminating the licensure requirement for Landscape Architects and Certified Interior Designers as it would have an adverse affect the public health, safety, and welfare of all Virginian’s.

Respectfully,

Chris Stone, PE, F.NSPE, F.ASCE, LEED AP
Senior Principal, Clark Nexsen
2011-12 National President, National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
Professional Engineer Board Member, Virginia APELSCIDLA DPOR