WHO: The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) has announced yet another successful collaboration with policy makers in support of the profession, this time in the state of Utah.

WHEN: On February 3, 2021 the Utah senate passed HB49. The bill is expected to be signed by the governor in the coming weeks. 

WHAT: HB49 serves as an amendment to the Commercial Interior Designers Act, originally passed in 2016. The initial bill included a sunset statute, requiring a reexamination of the act every four years. With HB49, Utah’s state leaders have voted to continue the law and remove the sunset repeal, thereby making a more permanent statement. The Commercial Interior Designers Act formally recognized commercial interior designers, creating a certification for them and allowing them to submit their documents for building permits. View the bill HERE.

WHY: Certification of interior designers affirms the value of these professionals and their work. Interior designers play a key role in public safety, from fostering ADA-friendly environments to understanding fire safety codes and wayfinding. The law recognizes this critical knowledge base and invites designers to impart their insight on public safety, wellness, and more in commercial environments through their certification. Utah’s certified commercial interior designers must pass the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam and provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character. Certified commercial interior designers are also required to complete 20 hours of continuing education for their renewal, with at least 10 continuing education credit hours dedicated exclusively to health-safety issues. Additionally, the law recognizes the importance of interior design as an independent practice, and the market need for interior designers to be able to obtain their own permits for interior construction projects.