12.18.24

Here’s What to Expect in 2025 for the #SignSealEmpower Campaign

While legislation was not formally introduced in 2024 for #SignSealEmpower, we remain committed to the effort and to continuing our momentum. In addition to advancing the #SignSealEmpower effort, we have our eyes on the upcoming 2026 Sunset Review for the California Council for Interior Design Certification (CCIDC). Similar to the California Architects Board sunset review this last year, the Assembly and Senate Business and Professions committees will jointly hold hearings to review the functionality of CCIDC. We are working to ensure our proposal and any legislation relating to #SignSealEmpower are distinct from that process to avoid confusion.

Key Issues

In building stronger relationships with policymakers and staff, we uncovered a key issue for the policy committee consultants.  The Sunset Review of CAB noted that Licensed Landscape Architects are not always able to submit their own plans.  There is a wide variety of responses at different local government agencies.  Consultants want to ensure that if permitting privileges were provided to commercial interior designers it will be consistently successful at the local level.  Continuing conversations with Building Officials to address this issue has guided our decisions on the structure and enforcement of any proposed legislation.

Both AIA and CAB raised concerns about having different regulatory structures for commercial and residential interior designers. This concern is referred to as the ‘bifurcation’ of the interior design community. Stakeholders believe that two regulating entities that exist simultaneously, each with their own path to certification for either commercial or non-commercial interior design, would cause further confusion for the profession and its consumers. IIDA appreciates this concern and is actively working with stakeholders to put forward a proposal that addresses this concern and ultimately provides an equal pathway for commercial interior designers to have their plans recognized.

To stay up to date on all legislative efforts, text “InteriorDesign” to 52886.