HB156 Alabama 2010 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Marcel Black
Democrat
Session: Regular Session 2010
Title: Architects, State Board for Registration of, responsible control, definition altered, title of superintendent changed to on-site observer, restrictive firm ownership and naming requirements removed, disciplinary actions altered, civil penalties, secretary changed to executive director, Secs. 34-2-30, 34-2-32, 34-2-33, 34-2-34, 34-2-35, 34-2-36, 34-2-37, 34-2-38, 34-2-40, 34-2-41, 34-2-42 am'd.
Summary: HB156 updates Alabama's architecture licensing laws by reforming the State Board for Registration of Architects, redefining responsible control, updating leadership titles, relaxing firm ownership rules, and adding civil penalties and disciplinary powers.
What This Bill Does
It defines responsible control and requires licensed architects to oversee all phases of architectural practice. It renames certain positions (superintendent to on-site observer; secretary to executive director) and establishes a six-member State Board for Registration of Architects with district-based appointments. It relaxes some firm ownership and naming rules while requiring firm authorization and clear supervisory structures for corporations and partnerships. It adds civil penalties, stricter enforcement mechanisms, and formal disciplinary procedures for violations, including fines, suspensions, and revocation of licenses.

Who It Affects
Registered architects and architectural firms in Alabama (including corporations and partnerships) who must meet new responsible control standards, stamping rules, and firm authorization requirements.
Nonregistered individuals or entities seeking to practice architecture in Alabama (including foreign firms) who would face licensing, authorization requirements, and potential civil penalties for violations.

Key Provisions
Defines responsible control and requires control and knowledge of technical submissions by registered architects.
Renames roles: superintendent becomes on-site observer; secretary becomes executive director.
Eliminates overly restrictive firm ownership and naming requirements; sets minimum ownership and control conditions for entities practicing architecture.
Requires annual certificate of authorization for corporations or partnerships that practice architecture; sets fees and renewal rules; requires filing incorporation documents with the board.
Stamps and seals: documents must bear the architect seal and be prepared under the responsible control; stamping after certificate termination is unlawful.
Board disciplinary powers: ability to reprimand, levy civil fines (up to $5,000 per day, $25,000 per violation cap), suspend or revoke licenses, and issue civil penalties to nonregistered violators; includes notice and hearing rights and appeals to the Circuit Court.
Creates a six-member State Board with district-based representation, four-year terms, eligibility, residency requirements, and governance rules; includes a funding and reporting structure.
Establishes emeritus status for long-time, older architects with no renewal fee and allows return to practice under proper application.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Architects, State Board for Registration of