Assertion: All Interior Designers will be required to get a state license to practice interior design as defined by the statute.

· Fact: SB178 has an exemption clause for residential designers, decorators and architects from meeting the requirements to offer interior design services within applications related to single- or two-family structure. Lines: 199-209 of SB178

· Fact: Anyone in the Commonwealth may use the term or title "interior designer" with no restrictions what so ever. The only title that an individual may not use, without meeting SB178 legislation is "Registered Interior Designer".

Assertion: To acquire a state license, Interior Designers must become eligible to take, and pass the NCIDQ exam. A college degree in interior design is mandatory to become eligible to take the NCIDQ exam.

· Fact: SB#178includes a grandfathering clause; individuals (interior designers, architects and the like) with 10+ years in the profession are eligible to apply within the first year of enactment. Lines: 148 to 159 of SB178

· Fact: SB#178allows designers who qualify by education (NASAD/CIDA or equal), experience (IDEP or equal) and examination (NCIDQ ) the use of the title "Registered interior designer"

Assertion: Un-licensed interior designers will be subject to heavy fines if they market themselves as an interior designer on their website, business card and all forms of advertising.

· Fact: SB#178does not prohibit firms or individuals without a registered interior designer on staff or who is not a registered interior designer from identifying their services as "space planning", "interior decorating", "interior architecture", "residential designer" and the like, provided such person does not represent himself or herself as a registered interior designer.

· Fact: SB#178has an exemption clause for residential designers, decorators and architects ; any person from performing interior design services or interior decorating services for residential applications related to single- or two-family residences, whether detached or part of multiple residences, provided such person does not represent himself or herself as a registered interior designer.

Assertion: Massachusetts Senate Bill No. 178 is a restrictive "Practice Act" that creates a MONOPOLY on the practice of interior design in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

· Fact: SB178 is not worded with the intent to restrain trade. SB178is in fact designed to break the current restraint of trade that limits competition for the delivery of design services affecting the built environment. Architects hold a virtual monopoly for the delivery of design and construction-related services which require a building permit. The AIA maintains this privileged licensed status by sustained claims for protecting the health, safety and welfare of the public. This claim of privilege rests on three foundations- extensive education, experience, and examination of its license holders for minimum competency. Education, experience, and examination are the identical three claims that Interior Designers are citing to support their quest for licensure, work for which they are so eminently qualified - work they cannot seek without a license.

· Fact: Senate Bill No. 178 is inclusive of all facets of the interior design industry, and when passed will allow fair access to those who qualify to bid on state work which currently they are currently excluded from. Professional recognition of interior designers brings more competition to design services. Costs are lower, unique services are provided, and the consumer ultimately wins when interior designers are granted unrestricted right to practice through professional recognition.

Every decision an interior designer makes affects life safety and quality of life.

Did you know that there are over 700 fires per month in buildings accessed by the public where interior finish materials and content were the first items ignited? Did you know that those 700 fires per month cause 23 civilian deaths, 330 civilian injuries and over $399 million in direct property damage?
Did you know that qualified interior designers can help reduce the damage?

The most important thing you can do as an individual is to contact your legislator directly; by making a phone call or sending an e-mail. As a constituent within their district they represent your voice and issues within the Commonwealth.

First how you must find your legislator -use the following websites:

www.wheredoivotema.com
http://www.state.ma.us/legis/citytown.htm