SB98 Alabama 2016 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Tom Whatley

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2016

Title

Board of Examiners of Landscape Architects, maximum administrative fine increased from $250 to $2,500, board authorized to assess costs against person found guilty, Sec. 34-17-5 am'd.

Summary

SB98 would raise the maximum fine the Landscape Architects Board can impose and let the board charge the guilty party for disciplinary costs.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, the bill increases the maximum administrative fine per violation from $250 to $2,500. It also allows the board to assess all or part of the costs of a disciplinary proceeding against the accused who is found guilty. The bill keeps the existing grounds for disciplinary action (such as fraud, impersonation, practicing without authorization, negligence, and gross incompetence) and confirms the board’s authority to reprimand, suspend, or revoke a license.

Who It Affects

• Licensed landscape architects in Alabama, who could face higher fines (up to $2,500 per violation) and may be charged disciplinary costs if found guilty.
• Individuals accused in board disciplinary actions (including licensees and applicants) who, if found guilty, may be required to pay all or part of the disciplinary costs.

Key Provisions

• Increases the maximum administrative fine from $250 to $2,500 per violation.
• Authorizes the board to assess costs of a disciplinary proceeding against the accused who is found guilty.
• Maintains the board's disciplinary options (reprimand, suspend, revoke, and other actions) and lists grounds for disciplinary action (fraud, impersonation, practicing without authorization, deceit, negligence, gross incompetence, etc.).
• Effective date: becomes law on the first day of the third month after passage and Governor approval.

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

Subjects

Landscape Architects, Alabama Board of Examiners of