by Brianna Crandall — September 15, 2014—Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick recently signed into law a bill that expands the rights and privileges of interior designers to bid on state contracts in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The new law, which goes into effect November 21, establishes the right of interior designers to serve as the prime consultant for state contracts, allowing credentialed designers increased opportunities for work and wholly recognizing the profession of interior design.
The International Interior Design Association (IIDA), with 13,000+ members across 50 countries, on behalf of its membership, commended Gov. Patrick, State Rep. Louis L. Kafka, and the Massachusetts Legislature for their support and action on this issue.
IIDA members and collateral organizations played a significant part in mobilizing colleagues and building grassroots support for this legislation through advocacy efforts that emphasized the value in affording Massachusetts interior designers more flexibility in their practice and ability to be more involved in state work that is code-defined. The legislation will ultimately enable designers to contribute to the long-term development of construction projects in the Commonwealth.
On behalf of the International Board of Directors, IIDA Vice President, Susanne Molina, IIDA, CID, LEED AP, ID+C, also extended thanks and appreciation to the IIDA New England Chapter, the Massachusetts Interior Design Coalition (MIDC), and lobbyist Serlin Haley, LLP, in helping to see this bill to passage.
“The passage of this legislation is the catalyst that will drive continued innovation for the built environment in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and elevate the industry and profession of interior design in the state,” said Molina.
The text of HB 2832 An Act Recognizing the Profession of Interior Designers to Bid on State Contracts , is available online.
