KBB - August 2008 - (Page 20)

Feedback (Editor’s note: Edward Nagorsky’s Opinion piece, “Lawful Enterprise,” which appeared in the June issue, touched off a maelstrom of passionate responses, some angry and some positive. Following are some of the comments received thus far. However, as K+BB is sensitive to the concerns on both sides of this issue, we want to reiterate that the article in question and our decision to publish it do not represent in any way the views of the staff. For additional letters on this topic, visit www.kbbonline.com/legislation. To voice your opinion, email ctrauthwein@kbbonline.com.) To the Editor: First and foremost, I am a licensed interior designer in the great State of Florida, as well as a subscriber to your publication. I am greatly disturbed by the article titled, “Lawful Enterprise,” in which Edward Nagorsky promotes a disservice to the professional design industry with his statements regarding Title and Practice acts. He is not, as he stated, giving an objective review of the facts. Indeed, he does not list the studies or reference where he finds his “facts.” Too often perception equals reality, which is why interior designers support regulation and promote professional status. To be licensed in the State of Florida, one must complete a college degree, intern under a licensed architect or interior designer, pass the NCIDQ (a national qualifying test similar to that for architects, engineers, et al) and apply to the State of Florida to become licensed. The State of Florida Professional Regulation Board reviews the application, which includes transcripts, test scores, experience history and recommendations of peers. I know designers who graduated, passed the NCIDQ test, had the history and recommendations, but because the coursework was not complete, had to take additional classes before being granted a license. Furthermore, state licensing requires a license holder to complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years. Two hours must be in advanced building codes, and 16 must be in health, safety and welfare. These standards are very rigid and, I assure you, are not arbitrarily set by the ASID, as the article stated. By the way, I am not, or have never been, a member of ASID. Yes, residential work is excluded from the licensure act, which would give the NKBA its continued livelihood. Kitchen and bath designers will not be impacted by the practice or licensure act if they want to continue designing residential interiors. Otherwise, there is nothing that prevents them from becoming licensed designers by following the steps outlined above. Most interior designers in IIDA work in the contract field, which does require licensing. In Florida, an interior designer can sign and seal interior construction documents. Our clients appreciate the fact that we can perform this service at a reduced rate from larger architectural firms, which is contrary to the article’s statement that the laws harm the public by artiﬁcially inﬂating consumer prices. Continued on page 22 C i rcle No. 172 http://www.kbbonline.com/legislation http://www.kbbonline.com/legislation http://www.libertyhardware.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of KBB - August 2008

KBB - August 2008
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KBB - August 2008