TITLE 22.EXAMINING BOARDS

Part 1. TEXAS BOARD OF ARCHITECTURAL EXAMINERS

Chapter 1. ARCHITECTS

Subchapter F. ARCHITECT'S SEAL

22 TAC §§1.101 - 1.106

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners proposes an amendment to rules in Title 22, Chapter 1, Subchapter F. Section §1.101 requires that every registered architect procure a seal and use the seal to identify all construction documents prepared by the architect or under the architect's supervision and control for use in Texas; that the architect must personally authorize use of the seal; and that the architect is responsible for the security of the seal. Section §1.102 sets forth that impression and embossing seals are not permissible and that the design and dimensions of the seal itself must conform to certain requirements. Section §1.103 requires every registered architect to affix his or her seal to construction documents and lists the specific types of documents affected by the requirement. It also specifies the limited circumstances under which an architect may issue unsealed documents. It prohibits removal of the seal from any document issued from the architect's office. The section provides a method for sealing electronic drawing files and issuing them with a certain disclaimer substituted for the architect's signature. It requires that an architect maintain a sealed, signed, and dated paper or microform copy of all construction documents for a minimum of 10 years. It sets forth the conditions under which an architect, working as a third party, may complete, correct, revise, or add to the work of others. It also requires that architects seal documents issued by their consultants whenever the documents are not sealed by the consultants. Section §1.104 prohibits an architect from affixing his/her seal to any document that was not prepared by the architect or under the architect's supervision and control. The section prohibits anyone, except the architect represented, from using or attempting to use an architect's seal or modifying documents bearing an architect's seal without first obtaining the express written authority of the architect represented and clearly indicating on the documents the extent of the modifications made. The section prohibits the use of signature reproductions such as rubber stamps or computer generated or other facsimiles in lieu of actual signatures. Section §1.105 sets forth the conditions under which an architect may adapt and seal prototypical construction documents prepared by another duly licensed architect. The section requires that the adapting architect take certain steps to ensure that the original prototypical design has been prepared by a qualified professional, that the architect take proper responsibility for the modified design, and that the architect maintain a copy of the complete original set of prototypical plans and specifications bearing the original architect's seal for ten (10) years. Section §1.106 sets forth an architect's responsibility for providing clients with information regarding the Board's jurisdiction over an architect's professional practice.

The amendment to §1.101 is intended to clarify that an architect may not issue a document regulated by the subchapter unless the document is sealed, signed, and dated or is clearly marked so that it cannot be used improperly. The amended rule no longer states that an architect must procure a seal because this language is superfluous in light of the explicit language of Section 9 of the Architects' Registration Law and also because this requirement is implied by the language of the subchapter. The amended rule no longer states that an architect must personally authorize the use of his or her seal because this language is superfluous in light of the explicit language of Section 9 of the Architects' Registration Law and the language of other subsections. The amended rule no longer states that an architect is responsible for the security of his or her seal. The amendment to §1.102 is intended to more clearly state that an architect must use a seal which will be visible if the sealed document is copied and also is intended to provide a clearer description of the required design of an architect's seal. The amendment to §1.103 is intended to more clearly describe the requirements related to an architect's use of his or her seal; to more clearly describe the requirements related to the retention of sealed documents and to change the commencement of the retention period from the date of substantial completion of the project to the date of signature on the sealed documents; to reorganize some subsections of the subchapter; to allow an architect to place the architect's signature directly under or adjacent to the seal; to specify which parts of a feasibility study must be sealed; to eliminate the requirement that an architect must seal documents prepared by certain consultants; to eliminate the requirement that a special statement must be placed on electronic documents in lieu of the architect's signature; to eliminate specific references to electronic documents so that such documents will no longer be subject to special requirements but, instead, will be subject to the same general requirements as other types of documents; and to eliminate the notification requirement related to the completion, correction, revision, or supplementation of work prepared by another licensed design professional. The amendment to §1.104 is intended to more clearly describe the prohibitions related to an architect's seal; to reorganize some subsections of the subchapter; to clarify the requirements related to the sealing of a document by an architect who is responsible for the preparation of only a portion of the document; and to eliminate the prohibition of signature reproductions. The amendment to §1.105 is intended to simplify and clarify the requirements related to prototypical design documents; to eliminate the requirement that a prototypical design must have been used in multiple locations in order for an architect to adapt and seal the design documents; and to eliminate the notification requirement related to prototypical design documents. The amendment to §1.106 is intended to clarify the requirements related to the statement of jurisdiction an architect must provide to each client and to more specifically describe the method for providing the statement of jurisdiction to clients.

Cathy L. Hendricks, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period these sections are in effect, no significant fiscal implications for state or local government are expected as a result of enforcing or administering the sections.

Cathy L. Hendricks, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the sections are in effect, the public benefits expected as a result of the amendments will be that the requirements related to the sealing of architectural design documents will be more practical and also will be more clearly described in the rules so that it will be easier for affected parties to understand and comply with the requirements.

The agency anticipates that there will be no significant effect on small business as a result of the amended sections. There is expected to be no significant change in the cost to persons required to comply with the amendments to these sections.

Comments may be submitted to Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, P.O. Box 12337, Austin, TX 78711-2337.

The amendments are proposed pursuant to Section 3 and Section 9 of Article 249a, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provide the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules, including rules related to the sealing requirements for architectural drawings and specifications.

The proposed amendments to these sections do not affect any other statutes.

§1.101.Seal Required.

As provided below, an Architect may not issue or authorize the issuance of a document regulated by this Subchapter unless, pursuant to the requirements of this Subchapter, the document is:

(1) sealed, signed, and dated, thereby indicating that it may be used for regulatory approval, permitting, or construction; or

(2) clearly marked to indicate that it may not be used for regulatory approval, permitting, or construction. [ Every registered Architect shall procure a seal that shall be used to identify all Construction Documents prepared by the Architect or under the Architect's Supervision and Control for use in Texas. The Architect must personally authorize use of the seal. The Architect is responsible for the security of the seal when not in use. ]

§1.102.Type and Design.

(a) On every document requiring an Architect's seal, the Architect shall affix or cause the affixation of a seal that will produce a clearly visible and legible facsimile of the seal when the document is copied or reproduced. An Architect may not affix or authorize the affixation of an impression or embossing seal on a document requiring a seal. [ An Architect must use a seal that will produce a permanent facsimile of the seal, such as a rubber stamp, a decal, or a computer generated image, on any Construction Document that is intended for duplication or dissemination. An Architect may not use an impression or embossing seal. ]

(b) The design of an Architect's seal shall be a replica of the sample seal shown in this Subsection except that the name of the Architect and the Architect's registration number shall be substituted for the Architect's name and registration number shown on the sample seal. [ The design of the seal shall be an exact replica of the seal shown in this subsection and shall bear the words "Registered Architect," "State of Texas," the name of the Architect, and the Architect's registration number. ]

Figure: 22 TAC §1.102(b) (No change.)

§1.103.Required Use of Seal and Retention of Sealed Documents.

(a) On every original Construction Document prepared by an Architect or under an Architect's Supervision and Control, the Architect shall affix or cause the affixation of:

(1) the Architect's seal;

(2) the Architect's signature (across the face of the seal's image or directly under or adjacent to the seal's image) and

(3) the date of signature (including the month, day, and year of signing) before the Construction Document is issued by or under the authority of the Architect.

(b) The Architect's seal and signature and the date must be clearly visible on each copy of an original Construction Document issued by or under the authority of an Architect.

(c) Construction Documents requiring a seal, signature, and date include the following:

(1) Each sheet of drawings;

(2) Each table of contents and index that lists bound specifications and/or project manuals;

(3) Each specification that is not listed in a table of contents or index;

(4) Each sheet that identifies the project and provides a list of sealed Construction Documents, such as a title sheet, table of contents, or index; and

(5) Each addenda, change order, construction change directive, and other Supplemental Document that alters or clarifies an existing Construction Document.

(d) Each drawing and specification included in a Feasibility Study issued by or under the authority of an Architect must be sealed, signed, and dated in the manner described in subsection (a) of this section.

(e) A drawing or specification issued by or under the authority of an Architect for a purpose other than regulatory approval, permitting, or construction shall include:

(1) the Architect's name;

(2) the Architect's registration number;

(3) the date the document is issued (including the month, day, and year of issuance); and

(4) a statement clearly indicating that the drawing or specification may not be used for regulatory approval, permitting, or construction.

(f) For a minimum of ten (10) years from the date of signature on each Construction Document, Prototypical Construction Document, and Feasibility Study sealed by or under the authority of an Architect, the Architect shall be responsible for the maintenance of the sealed, signed, and dated original document or a copy of the document bearing the clearly visible and legible seal, signature, and date.

[ (a) Every registered Architect shall affix his/her seal, actual signature (across the face of the seal's image), and date of signature to all original Construction Documents which are prepared and issued under the authorship or under the Supervision and Control of the Architect for use in Texas. The Architect's seal, signature, and date must be visible on all copies of original Construction Documents issued for use in Texas. Original Construction Documents requiring a seal, signature, and date include the following:]

[ (1) Each sheet of drawings; ]

[ (2) Each table of contents or index that lists specifications in bound groupings; any individual specification sheet that is not listed in a table of contents or index must be sealed individually; ]

[ (3) Each sheet that identifies the project and lists any sealed Construction Documents, such as a title sheet, table of contents, or index; and ]

[ (4) Addenda, change orders, and supplemental documents. ]

[ (b) Drawings and specifications considered incomplete by the Architect may be used as presentation documents or issued for purposes other than regulatory approval, permit, or construction without the Architect's seal or signature affixed. All incomplete drawings and specifications issued by an Architect must be dated, bear the Architect's name and registration number, and be conspicuously marked to clearly indicate the documents are incomplete and may not be used for regulatory approval, permit, or construction. Incomplete documents issued pursuant to this subsection may be issued in electronic format as long as the documents are dated, bear the Architect's name and registration number, and are conspicuously marked to clearly indicate they are incomplete and may not be used for regulatory approval, permit, or construction. ]

[ (c) An Architect shall not issue drawings or specifications unless they are sealed, signed, and dated pursuant to §1.103(a) or clearly marked to indicate that they are incomplete and may not be used for regulatory approval, permit, or construction pursuant to §1.103(b). ]

[ (d) An Architect shall seal, sign, and date any document issued for regulatory approval, permit, or construction which was prepared by a consultant retained by the Architect who did not affix a professional seal to the document. An Architect is not required to seal documents that have been sealed by other licensed professionals. ]

[ (e) Once documents bearing the Architect's seal are issued from the Architect's office, the seal shall not be removed by any person. ]

[ (f) An Architect may release electronic drawing files with the following statement substituted for the Architect's signature: "This electronic drawing file is released under the authority of {Architect's name, registration number} on {date}, who maintains the original file. This electronic drawing file may be used as a background drawing. Pursuant to Rule 1.103(f) of the Rules and Regulations of the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, the user of this electronic drawing file agrees to assume all responsibility for any modification to or use of this drawing file that is inconsistent with the requirements of the Rules and Regulations of the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners. No person may make any modification to this electronic drawing file without the Architect's express written permission." ]

[ (g) For every project wherein an Architect releases documents for regulatory approval, permit, or construction, the Architect shall maintain a sealed, signed, and dated paper or microform copy of such documents for a minimum of 10 years from the date of substantial completion of the project.]

[ (h) Notwithstanding §1.105, an Architect may complete, correct, revise, or add to the work of another licensed design professional when engaged to do so by a client as long as all of the following conditions are satisfied: ]

[ (1) the licensed design professional responsible for the original work is notified in writing by the Architect of the engagement immediately upon acceptance of the engagement;]

[ (2) the work prepared by the Architect or under the Architect's Supervision and Control shall be sealed by and be the responsibility of the Architect; and ]

[ (3) the Architect may not seal or take responsibility for the work prepared by the other licensed design professional which was not prepared under the Architect's Supervision and Control. ]

[ (i) An Architect shall seal, sign, and date any feasibility study issued by the Architect for use in Texas.]

§1.104.Prohibitions.

(a) Except as provided in §1.105, an Architect may not affix or authorize the affixation of his/her seal to any document unless the document was prepared by the Architect or under the Architect's Supervision and control.

(b) If only a portion of a document was prepared by an Architect or under an Architect's Supervision and Control, the Architect's seal may not be affixed to the document unless:

(1) the portion of the document prepared by the Architect or under the Architect's Supervision and Control is clearly identified; and

(2) it is clearly indicated on the document that the Architect's seal applies only to that portion of the document prepared by the Architect or under the Architect's Supervision and Control.

(c) Only the Architect and any person with express written authorization from the Architect may use or attempt to use an Architect's seal. No other person may use or attempt to use:

(1) an Architect's seal;

(2) a copy of an Architect's seal; or

(3) a replica of an Architect's seal.

(d) No person may modify a document bearing an Architect's seal without first obtaining the express written authorization of the Architect and clearly indicating on the document the extent of the modifications made. For purposes of this Subsection, the preparation of a new page or pages to be added to a document bearing an Architect's seal does not constitute a modification of the document. However, the preparation of such a new page or pages is subject to the rules and statutory provisions that regulate the practice of architecture, including those prohibiting the unauthorized practice of architecture.

(e) Once a document bearing an Architect's seal is issued, the seal may not be removed by any person.

[ (a) Notwithstanding §1.105, an Architect may not affix his/her seal to any document unless the document was prepared by the Architect or under the Architect's Supervision and Control.]

[ (b) No person, other than the Architect represented, shall use or attempt to use an Architect's seal or shall modify documents bearing an Architect's seal without first obtaining the express written authority of the Architect represented and clearly indicating on the documents the extent of the modifications made.]

[ (c) The use of signature reproductions such as rubber stamps or computer generated or other facsimiles is not permitted in lieu of actual signatures].

§1.105.Prototypical Design.

(a) An Architect may not affix or authorize the affixation of the Architect's seal to Prototypical Construction Documents derived from Prototypical plans and specifications prepared by another person unless:

(1) The Architect thoroughly reviews and makes appropriate changes to all aspects of the Prototypical plans and specifications to adapt the Prototypical plans and specifications to the specific site and ensure compliance with all applicable statutes, codes, and other regulatory provisions;

(2) The Architect affixes or causes the affixation of the Architect's seal and signature and the date of signature to each sheet of the adopted Prototypical Construction Documents in the manner described in §1.103(a); and

(3) The Architect accepts full professional, legal, and technical responsibility for each sheet of the adapted Prototypical Construction Documents on which the Architect's seal is placed.

(b) An Architect who affixes or authorizes the affixation of his/her seal to adapted Prototypical Construction Documents derived from Prototypical plans and specifications prepared by another person shall maintain a copy of the complete set of Prototypical plans and specifications prepared by the other person for at least ten (10) years from the date of the Architect's signature on the adapted Prototypical Construction Documents.

[ (a) An Architect may adapt and seal prototypical Construction Documents prepared by another person only if all of the following conditions are satisfied: ]

[ (1) The prototypical design has been used in multiple locations;]

[ (2) The adapting Architect notifies the original architect in writing via certified mail that the adapting Architect has been engaged to adapt the plans and specifications so that the project may be built at a specific location in Texas; ]

[ (3) The adapting Architect thoroughly reviews and makes appropriate changes to all aspects of the prototypical design to adapt the prototypical design to the specific site and ensure compliance with all applicable codes;]

[ (4) The adapting Architect seals all pages of the adapted prototypical plans in the same manner as described in §1.103(a) of this subchapter for original Construction Documents; and ]

[ (5) The adapting Architect accepts full responsibility for all Construction Documents on which the adapting Architect's seal is placed. ]

[ (b) The adapting Architect shall maintain a copy of the complete original set of prototypical plans and specifications bearing the original Architect's seal for at least ten (10) years from the date of substantial completion of the project for which the adapting Architect is responsible.]

§1.106.Other Professional Responsibilities.

(a) An Architect shall provide a written statement of jurisdiction to each client for whom the Architect renders architectural services in Texas. [ An architect shall provide a written Statement of Jurisdiction to each and every client for whom the architect renders architectural services in Texas: ]

[ (1) The Statement of Jurisdiction shall say, "The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners has jurisdiction over complaints regarding the professional practices of persons registered as architects in Texas," and shall include the Board's current mailing address, telephone number, and web site address. ]

[ (2) The Board recommends that the Statement of Jurisdiction be placed on the last page of the written agreement for architectural services. In the absence of a written agreement, the Statement of Jurisdiction shall be otherwise presented to each client in writing.]

(b) The statement of jurisdiction shall:

(1) state that "The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners has jurisdiction over complaints regarding the professional practices of persons registered as architects in Texas";

(2) include the Board's current mailing address and telephone number; and

(3) be placed on the last page of the written contract for architectural services or otherwise presented to the client in writing.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on April 21, 2003.

TRD-200302551

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 1, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 305-8535


Chapter 3. LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

Subchapter F. LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT'S SEAL

22 TAC §§3.101 - 3.104

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners proposes an amendment to rules in Title 22, Chapter 3, Subchapter F. Section §3.101 requires that every registered landscape architect procure a seal and use the seal to identify all construction documents prepared by the landscape architect or under the landscape architect's supervision and control for use in Texas; that the landscape architect must personally authorize use of the seal; and that the landscape architect is responsible for the security of the seal. Section §3.102 sets forth that impression and embossing seals are not permissible and that the design and dimensions of the seal itself must conform to certain requirements. Section §3.103 requires a landscape architect to affix his or her seal to construction documents and lists the specific types of documents affected by the requirement. It also specifies the limited circumstances under which a landscape architect may issue unsealed documents. It prohibits removal of the seal from any document issued from the landscape architect's office. The section provides a method for sealing electronic drawing files and issuing them with a certain disclaimer substituted for the landscape architect's signature. It requires that a landscape architect maintain a sealed, signed, and dated paper or microform copy of all construction documents for a minimum of 10 years. It sets forth the conditions under which a landscape architect, working as a third party, may complete, correct, revise, or add to the work of others. It also requires that landscape architects seal documents issued by their consultants whenever the documents are not sealed by the consultants. Section §3.104 prohibits a landscape architect from affixing his/her seal to any document that was not prepared by the landscape architect or under the landscape architect's supervision and control. The section prohibits anyone, except the landscape architect represented, from using or attempting to use a landscape architect's seal or modifying documents bearing a landscape architect's seal without first obtaining the express written authority of the landscape architect represented and clearly indicating on the documents the extent of the modifications made. The section prohibits the use of signature reproductions such as rubber stamps or computer generated or other facsimiles in lieu of actual signatures.

The amendment to §3.101 is intended to clarify that a landscape architect may not issue a document regulated by the subchapter unless the document is sealed, signed, and dated or is clearly marked so that it cannot be used improperly. The amended rule no longer states that a landscape architect must procure a seal because this language is superfluous in light of the explicit language of Section 8D of the Landscape Architects' Registration Law and also because this requirement is implied by the language of the subchapter. The amended rule no longer states that a landscape architect must personally authorize the use of his or her seal because this language is superfluous in light of the explicit language of Section 8D of the Landscape Architects' Registration Law and the language of other subsections. The amended rule no longer states that a landscape architect is responsible for the security of his or her seal. The amendment to §3.102 is intended to more clearly state that a landscape architect must use a seal which will be visible if the sealed document is copied and also is intended to provide a clearer description of the required design of a landscape architect's seal. The amendment to §3.103 is intended to more clearly describe the requirements related to a landscape architect's use of his or her seal; to more clearly describe the requirements related to the retention of sealed documents and to change the commencement of the retention period from the date of substantial completion of the project to the date of signature on the sealed documents; to reorganize some subsections of the subchapter; to allow a landscape architect to place the landscape architect's signature across or directly adjacent to the seal in addition to under the seal; to specify which parts of a feasibility study must be sealed; to eliminate the requirement that a landscape architect must seal documents prepared by certain consultants; to eliminate the requirement that a special statement must be placed on electronic documents in lieu of the landscape architect's signature; to eliminate specific references to electronic documents so that such documents will no longer be subject to special requirements but, instead, will be subject to the same general requirements as other types of documents; and to eliminate the notification requirement related to the completion, correction, revision, or supplementation of work prepared by another licensed design professional. The amendment to §3.104 is intended to more clearly describe the prohibitions related to a landscape architect's seal; to reorganize some subsections of the subchapter; to clarify the requirements related to the sealing of a document by a landscape architect who is responsible for the preparation of only a portion of the document; and to eliminate the prohibition against signature reproductions.

Cathy L. Hendricks, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period these sections are in effect, no significant fiscal implications for state or local government are expected as a result of enforcing or administering the sections.

Cathy L. Hendricks, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the sections are in effect the public benefits expected as a result of the amendments will be that the requirements related to the sealing of landscape architectural design documents will be more practical and also will be more clearly described in the rules so that it will be easier for affected parties to understand and comply with the requirements.

The agency anticipates there will be no significant effect on small business as a result of the amended sections. There is expected to be no significant change in the cost to persons required to comply with the amendments to these sections.

Comments may be submitted to Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, P.O. Box 12337, Austin, TX 78711-2337.

The amendments are proposed pursuant to Section 4 and Section 8D of Article 249c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provide the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules, including rules related to the sealing of landscape architectural drawings and specifications.

The proposed amendments to these sections do not affect any other statutes.

§3.101.Seal Required.

As provided below, a Landscape Architect may not issue or authorize the issuance of a document regulated by this Subchapter unless, pursuant to the requirements of this Subchapter, the document is:

(1) sealed, signed, and dated, thereby indicating that it may be used for regulatory approval, permitting, or construction; or

(2) clearly marked to indicate that it may not be used for regulatory approval, permitting, or construction. [ Every registered Landscape Architect shall procure a seal that shall be used to identify all Construction Documents prepared by the Landscape Architect or under the Landscape Architect's Supervision and Control for use in Texas. The Landscape Architect must personally authorize use of the seal. The Landscape Architect is responsible for the security of the seal when not in use. ]

§3.102.Type and Design.

(a) On every document requiring a Landscape Architect's seal, the Landscape Architect shall affix or cause the affixation of a seal that will produce a clearly visible and legible facsimile of the seal when the document is copied or reproduced. A Landscape Architect may not affix or authorize the affixation of an impression or embossing seal on a document requiring a seal. [ A Landscape Architect must use a seal that will produce a permanent facsimile of the seal, such as a rubber stamp, a decal, or a computer generated image, on any Construction Document that is intended for duplication or dissemination. A Landscape Architect may not use an impression or embossing seal. ]

(b) The design of a Landscape Architect's seal shall be a replica of the sample seal shown in this Subsection except that the name of the Landscape Architect and the Landscape Architect's registration number shall be substituted for the Landscape Architect's name and registration number shown on the sample seal. [ The design of the seal shall be an exact replica of the seal shown in this subsection and shall bear the words "Registered Landscape Architect," "State of Texas," the name of the Landscape Architect, and the Landscape Architect's registration number. ]

Figure: 22 TAC §3.102(b) (No change.)

§3.103.Required Use of Seal and Retention of Sealed Documents .

(a) On every original Construction Document prepared by a Landscape Architect or under a Landscape Architect's Supervision and Control, the Landscape Architect shall affix or cause the affixation of:

(1) the Landscape Architect's seal;

(2) the Landscape Architect's signature (across the face of the seal's image or directly under or adjacent to the seal's image); and

(3) the date of signature (including the month, day, and year of signing) before the Construction Document is issued by or under the authority of the Landscape Architect.

(b) The Landscape Architect's seal and signature and the date must be clearly visible on each copy of an original Construction Document issued by or under the authority of a Landscape Architect.

(c) Construction Documents requiring a seal, signature, and date include the following:

(1) Each sheet of drawings;

(2) Each table of contents and index that lists bound specifications and/or project manuals;

(3) Each specification that is not listed in a table of contents or index;

(4) Each sheet that identifies the project and provides a list of sealed Construction Documents, such as a title sheet, table of contents, or index; and

(5) Each addenda, change order, construction change directive, and other Supplemental Document that alters or clarifies an existing Construction Document.

(d) Each drawing and specification included in a Feasibility Study issued by or under the authority of a Landscape Architect must be sealed, signed, and dated in the manner described in subsection (a) of this section.

(e) A drawing or specification issued by or under the authority of a Landscape Architect for a purpose other than regulatory approval, permitting, or construction shall include:

(1) the Landscape Architect's name;

(2) the Landscape Architect's registration number

(3) the date the document is issued (including the month, day, and year of issuance); and

(4) a statement clearly indicating that the drawing or specification may not be used for regulatory approval, permitting, or construction.

(f) For a minimum of ten (10) years from the date of signature on each Construction Document, Prototypical Construction Document, and Feasibility Study sealed by or under the authority of a Landscape Architect, the Landscape Architect shall be responsible for the maintenance of the sealed, signed, and dated original document or a copy of the document bearing the clearly visible and legible seal, signature, and date.

[ (a) Every registered Landscape Architect shall affix his/her seal, actual signature (under the seal's image), and date of signature to all original Construction Documents which are prepared and issued under the authorship or under the Supervision and Control of the Landscape Architect for use in Texas. The Landscape Architect's seal, signature, and the date must be visible on all copies of original Construction Documents issued for use in Texas. Original Construction Documents requiring seal, signature, and date include the following:]

[ (1) Each sheet of drawings, including maps, plans, and other designs; ]

[ (2) Each table of contents or index that lists specifications in bound groupings; any individual specification sheet that is not listed in a table of contents or index must be sealed individually; ]

[ (3) Each sheet that identifies the project and lists any sealed Construction Documents, such as a title sheet, table of contents, or index; and ]

[ (4) Addenda, change orders, and supplemental documents. ]

[ (b) Drawings and specifications considered incomplete by the Landscape Architect may be used as presentation documents or issued for purposes other than regulatory approval, permit, or construction without the Landscape Architect's seal or signature affixed. All incomplete drawings and specifications issued by a Landscape Architect must be dated, bear the Landscape Architect's name and registration number, and be conspicuously marked to indicate the documents are incomplete and may not be used for regulatory approval, permit, or construction. Incomplete documents issued pursuant to this subsection may be issued in electronic format as long as the documents are dated, bear the Landscape Architect's name and registration number, and are conspicuously marked to clearly indicate they are incomplete and may not be used for regulatory approval, permit, or construction.]

[ (c) A Landscape Architect shall not issue drawings or specifications unless they are sealed, signed, and dated pursuant to subsection (a) of this section or clearly marked to indicate that they are incomplete and may not be used for regulatory approval, permit, or construction pursuant to subsection (b) of this section. ]

[ (d) A Landscape Architect shall seal, sign, and date any document issued for regulatory approval, permit, or construction which was prepared by a consultant retained by the Landscape Architect who did not affix a professional seal to the document. A Landscape Architect is not required to seal documents that have been sealed by other licensed professionals. ]

[ (e) Once documents bearing the Landscape Architect's seal are issued from the Landscape Architect's office, the seal shall not be removed by any person. ]

[ (f) A Landscape Architect may release electronic drawing files with the following statement substituted for the Landscape Architect's signature: "This electronic drawing file is released under the authority of {Landscape Architect's name, registration number} on {date}, who maintains the original file. This electronic drawing file may be used as a background drawing. Pursuant to §3.103(f) of the Rules and Regulations of the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, the user of this electronic drawing file agrees to assume all responsibility for any modification to or use of this drawing file that is inconsistent with the requirements of the Rules and Regulations of the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners. No person may make any modification to this electronic drawing file without the Landscape Architect's express written permission." ]

[ (g) For every project wherein a Landscape Architect releases documents for regulatory approval, permit, or construction, the Landscape Architect shall maintain a sealed, signed, and dated paper or microform copy of such documents for a minimum of 10 years from the date of substantial completion of the project. ]

[ (h) A Landscape Architect may complete, correct, revise, or add to the work of another licensed design professional when engaged to do so by a client as long as all of the following conditions are satisfied: ]

[ (1) the licensed design professional responsible for the original work is notified in writing by the Landscape Architect of the engagement immediately upon acceptance of the engagement; ]

[ (2) the work prepared by the Landscape Architect or under the Landscape Architect's Supervision and Control shall be sealed by and be the responsibility of the Landscape Architect; and ]

[ (3) the Landscape Architect may not seal or take responsibility for the work prepared by the other licensed design professional which was not prepared under the Landscape Architect's Supervision and Control. ]

[ (i) A Landscape Architect shall seal, sign, and date any feasibility study issued by the Landscape Architect for use in Texas.]

§3.104.Prohibitions.

(a) Except as provided in §3.105, a Landscape Architect may not affix or authorize the affixation of his/her seal to any document unless the document was prepared by the Landscape Architect or under the Landscape Architect's Supervision and control.

(b) If only a portion of a document was prepared by a Landscape Architect or under a Landscape Architect's Supervision and Control, the Landscape Architect's seal may not be affixed to the document unless:

(1) the portion of the document prepared by the Landscape Architect or under the Landscape Architect's Supervision and Control is clearly identified; and

(2) it is clearly indicated on the document that the Landscape Architect's seal applies only to that portion of the document prepared by the Landscape Architect or under the Landscape Architect's Supervision and Control.

(c) Only the Landscape Architect and any person with express written authorization from the Landscape Architect may use or attempt to use a Landscape Architect's seal. No other person may use or attempt to use:

(1) a Landscape Architect's seal;

(2) a copy of an Landscape Architect's seal; or

(3) a replica of a Landscape Architect's seal.

(d) No person may modify a document bearing a Landscape Architect's seal without first obtaining the express written authorization of the Landscape Architect and clearly indicating on the document the extent of the modifications made. For purposes of this Subsection, the preparation of a new page or pages to be added to a document bearing a Landscape Architect's seal does not constitute a modification of the document. However, the preparation of such a new page or pages is subject to the rules and statutory provisions that regulate the practice of landscape architecture, including those prohibiting the unauthorized practice of landscape architecture.

(e) Once a document bearing a Landscape Architect's seal is issued, the seal may not be removed by any person.

[ (a) A Landscape Architect may not affix his/her seal to any document unless the document was prepared by the Landscape Architect or under the Landscape Architect's Supervision and Control. ]

[ (b) No person, other than the Landscape Architect represented, shall use or attempt to use a Landscape Architect's seal or shall modify documents bearing a Landscape Architect's seal without first obtaining the express written authority of the Landscape Architect represented and clearly indicating on the documents the extent of the modifications made. ]

[ (c) The use of signature reproductions such as rubber stamps or computer generated or other facsimiles is not permitted in lieu of actual signatures.]

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on April 21, 2003.

TRD-200302552

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 1, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 305-8535


22 TAC §3.105

(Editor's note: The text of the following section proposed for repeal will not be published. The section may be examined in the offices of the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners proposes the repeal of §3.105 for Title 22, Chapter 3, Subchapter F, which requires that a landscape architect provide a written statement of jurisdiction to each and every client for whom the landscape architect renders landscape architectural services in Texas. It specifies what the statement of jurisdiction shall say and recommends where it be placed. It sets forth the actions a landscape architect must take if he or she becomes aware of a course of action taken against the landscape architect's advice which may violate applicable state or local building laws or regulations and which is likely in the landscape architect's judgment to have a material adverse effect on the safe use of the completed project.

Simultaneously, the agency is proposing a new rule with section number 3.106 to replace the rule proposed for repeal. The existing rule is being repealed because of a need to add a new section to the subchapter and reorganize existing sections to accommodate the new section.

Cathy L. Hendricks, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the section is in effect, there are expected to be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of the repeal.

Cathy L. Hendricks, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the repealed section is replaced, the public benefits expected as a result of the repeal are that the requirements in this area will be more clearly stated and, therefore, easier to understand and follow.

The repeal is not expected to impact small business significantly. No economic cost to persons affected by the repeal is expected as a result of the repeal.

Comments may be submitted to Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, P.O. Box 12337, Austin, TX 78711-2337.

The repeal is proposed pursuant to Section 4 of Article 249c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provides the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules and includes implied authority to repeal rules that have been promulgated.

The proposed repeal does not affect any other statutes.

§3.105.Other Professional Responsibilities.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on April 21, 2003.

TRD-200302553

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 1, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 305-8535


22 TAC §3.105, §3.106

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners proposes new rules for Title 22, Chapter 3, Subchapter F concerning the landscape architect's seal. New §3.105 sets forth the conditions under which a landscape architect may adapt and seal prototypical construction documents derived from prototypical plans and specifications prepared by another person. The section requires that the landscape architect thoroughly review and adapt the prototypical plans and specifications to comply with applicable statutes, codes, and other regulatory provisions; that the landscape architect seal and accept responsibility for the adapted documents; and that the landscape architect maintain a copy of the complete set of original prototypical plans and specifications for ten (10) years. New §3.106 requires that a landscape architect provide a written statement of jurisdiction to each and every client for whom the landscape architect renders landscape architectural services in Texas. It specifies what the statement of jurisdiction shall say and where it shall be placed. The section also sets forth the actions a landscape architect must take if he or she becomes aware of a course of action taken against the landscape architect's advice which may violate an applicable statute, code, or other regulatory provision and which is likely in the landscape architect's judgment to have a material adverse effect on the safe use of the completed project.

Cathy L. Hendricks, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, has determined that for the first five years the sections as proposed are in effect, there are expected to be no significant fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the sections.

Ms. Hendricks has also determined that for each year of the first five years the sections as proposed are in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the sections as proposed will be that affected parties will have guidance regarding the requirements related to the adaptation and use of prototypical landscape architectural designs in Texas and that the requirements related to the statement of jurisdiction and to a landscape architect's duty to report unsafe courses of action taken against the landscape architect's advice will be more clearly stated and, therefore, easier to understand and follow.

The agency anticipates that there will be no additional effect on small business. There is no anticipated additional economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed.

Comments may be submitted to Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, P.O. Box 12337, Austin, TX 78711-2337.

The new rules are proposed pursuant to Section 4 of Article 249c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provides the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules.

These proposed rules do not affect any other statutes.

§3.105.Prototypical Design.

(a) A Landscape Architect may not affix or authorize the affixation of the Landscape Architect's seal to Prototypical Construction Documents derived from Prototypical plans and specifications prepared by another person unless:

(1) The Landscape Architect thoroughly reviews and makes appropriate changes to all aspects of the Prototypical plans and specifications to adapt the Prototypical plans and specifications to the specific site and ensure compliance with all applicable statutes, codes, and other regulatory provisions;

(2) The Landscape Architect affixes or causes the affixation of the Landscape Architect's seal and signature and the date of signature to each sheet of the adopted Prototypical Construction Documents in the manner described in §3.103(a); and

(3) The Landscape Architect accepts full professional, legal, and technical responsibility for each sheet of the adapted Prototypical Construction Documents on which the Landscape Architect's seal is placed.

(b) A Landscape Architect who affixes or authorizes the affixation of his/her seal to adapted Prototypical Construction Documents derived from Prototypical plans and specifications prepared by another person shall maintain a copy of the complete set of Prototypical plans and specifications prepared by the other person for at least ten (10) years from the date of the Landscape Architect's signature on the adapted Prototypical Construction Documents.

§3.106.Other Professional Responsibilities.

(a) A Landscape Architect shall provide a written statement of jurisdiction to each client for whom the Landscape Architect renders landscape architectural services in Texas.

(b) The statement of jurisdiction shall:

(1) state that "The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners has jurisdiction over complaints regarding the professional practices of persons registered as landscape architects in Texas";

(2) include the Board's current mailing address and telephone number; and

(3) be placed on the last page of the written contract for landscape architectural services or otherwise presented to the client in writing.

(c) If, in the course of his/her work on a landscape architectural project, a Landscape Architect becomes aware of a course of action taken against the Landscape Architect's advice which may violate an applicable statute, code, or other regulatory provision which is reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the safe use of the completed project, the Landscape Architect shall:

(1) report the course of action in writing to the owner, to the local building official with jurisdiction over the project, and to other responsible parties; and

(2) refuse to consent to the course of action.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on April 21, 2003.

TRD-200302554

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 1, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 305-8535


Chapter 5. INTERIOR DESIGNERS

Subchapter F. THE INTERIOR DESIGNER'S SEAL

22 TAC §§5.111 - 5.115

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners proposes an amendment to rules in Title 22, Chapter 5, Subchapter F. Section §5.111 requires that every registered interior designer procure a seal and use the seal to identify all construction documents prepared by the interior designer or under the interior designer's supervision and control for use in Texas; that the interior designer must personally authorize use of the seal; and that the interior designer is responsible for the security of the seal. Section §5.112 sets forth that impression and embossing seals are not permissible and that the design and dimensions of the seal itself must conform to certain requirements. Section §5.113 requires an interior designer to affix his or her seal to construction documents and lists the specific types of documents affected by the requirement. It also specifies the limited circumstances under which an interior designer may issue unsealed documents. It prohibits removal of the seal from any document issued from the interior designer's office. The section provides a method for sealing electronic drawing files and issuing them with a certain disclaimer substituted for the interior designer's signature. It requires that an interior designer maintain a sealed, signed, and dated paper or microform copy of all construction documents for a minimum of 10 years. It sets forth the conditions under which an interior designer, working as a third party, may complete, correct, revise, or add to the work of others. It also requires that interior designers seal documents issued by their consultants whenever the documents are not sealed by the consultants. Section §5.114 prohibits an interior designer from affixing his/her seal to any document that was not prepared by the interior designer or under the interior designer's supervision and control. The section prohibits anyone, except the interior designer represented, from using or attempting to use an interior designer's seal or modifying documents bearing an interior designer's seal without first obtaining the express written authority of the interior designer represented and clearly indicating on the documents the extent of the modifications made. The section prohibits the use of signature reproductions such as rubber stamps or computer generated or other facsimiles in lieu of actual signatures. Section §5.115 requires that an interior designer provide a written statement of jurisdiction to each and every client for whom the interior designer renders interior design services in Texas. It specifies what the statement of jurisdiction shall say and recommends where it be placed. The section sets forth the actions an interior designer must take if he or she becomes aware of a course of action taken against the interior designer's advice which may violate applicable state or local building laws or regulations and which is likely in the interior designer's judgment to have a material adverse effect on the safe use of the completed project.

The amendment to §5.111 is intended to clarify that an interior designer may not issue a document regulated by the subchapter unless the document is sealed, signed, and dated or is clearly marked so that it cannot be used improperly. The amended rule no longer states that an interior designer must procure a seal; this language is superfluous because this requirement is implied by other language contained in the subchapter. The amended rule no longer states that an interior designer must personally authorize the use of his or her seal because this language is superfluous in light of the language of other subsections. The amended rule no longer states that an interior designer is responsible for the security of his or her seal. The amendment to §5.112 is intended to more clearly state that an interior designer must use a seal which will be visible if the sealed document is copied and also is intended to provide a clearer description of the required design of an interior designer's seal. The amendment to §5.113 is intended to more clearly describe the requirements related to an interior designer's use of his or her seal; to more clearly describe the requirements related to the retention of sealed documents and to change the commencement of the retention period from the date of substantial completion of the project to the date of signature on the sealed documents; to reorganize some subsections of the subchapter; to allow an interior designer to place the interior designer's signature across or directly adjacent to the seal in addition to under the seal; to specify which parts of a feasibility study must be sealed; to eliminate the requirement that an interior designer must seal documents prepared by certain consultants; to eliminate the requirement that a special statement must be placed on electronic documents in lieu of the interior designer's signature; to eliminate specific references to electronic documents so that such documents will no longer be subject to special requirements but, instead, will be subject to the same general requirements as other types of documents; and to eliminate the notification requirement related to the completion, correction, revision, or supplementation of work prepared by another licensed design professional. The amendment to §5.114 is intended to more clearly describe the prohibitions related to an interior designer's seal; to reorganize some subsections of the subchapter; to clarify the requirements related to the sealing of a document by an interior designer who is responsible for the preparation of only a portion of the document; and to eliminate the prohibition of signature reproductions. The amendment to §5.115 is intended to clarify the requirements related to the statement of jurisdiction an interior designer must provide to each client; to more specifically describe the method for providing the statement of jurisdiction to clients; and to more clearly describe the requirements related to an interior designer's duty to report unsafe courses of action taken against the interior designer's advice.

Cathy L. Hendricks, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period these sections are in effect, no significant fiscal implications for state or local government are expected as a result of enforcing or administering the sections.

Cathy L. Hendricks, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the sections are in effect, the public benefits expected as a result of the amendments will be that the requirements related to the sealing of interior design documents will be more practical and also will be more clearly described in the rules so that it will be easier for affected parties to understand and comply with the requirements.

The agency anticipates there will be no significant effect on small business as a result of the amended sections. There is expected to be no significant change in the cost to persons required to comply with the amendments to these sections.

Comments may be submitted to Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA, Executive Director, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, P.O. Box 12337, Austin, TX 78711-2337.

The amendments are proposed pursuant to Section 5 and Section 13 of Article 249e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provide the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules, including rules related to the interior designer's seal.

The proposed amendments to these sections do not affect any other statutes.

§5.111.Seal Required.

As provided below, an Interior Designer may not issue or authorize the issuance of a document regulated by this Subchapter unless, pursuant to the requirements of this Subchapter, the document is:

(1) sealed, signed, and dated, thereby indicating that it may be used for regulatory approval, permitting, or construction; or

(2) clearly marked to indicate that it may not be used for regulatory approval, permitting, or construction. [ Every registered Interior Designer shall procure a seal that shall be used to identify all Construction Documents prepared by the Interior Designer or under the Interior Designer's Supervision and Control for use in Texas. The Interior Designer must personally authorize use of the seal. The Interior Designer is responsible for the security of the seal when not in use. ]

§5.112.Type and Design.

(a) On every document requiring an Interior Designer's seal, the Interior Designer shall affix or cause the affixation of a seal that will produce a clearly visible and legible facsimile of the seal when the document is copied or reproduced. An Interior Designer may not affix or authorize the affixation of an impression or embossing seal on a document requiring a seal. [ An Interior Designer must use a seal that will produce a permanent facsimile of the seal, such as a rubber stamp, a decal, or a computer generated image, on any Construction Document that is intended for duplication or dissemination. An Interior Designer may not use an impression or embossing seal. ]

(b) The design of an Interior Designer's seal shall be a replica of the sample seal shown in this Subsection except that the name of the Interior Designer and the Interior Designer's registration number shall be substituted for the Interior Designer's name and registration number shown on the sample seal. [ The design of the seal shall be an exact replica of the seal shown in this subsection and shall bear the words "Registered Interior Designer," "State of Texas," the name of the Interior Designer, and the Interior Designer's registration number. ]

Figure: 22 TAC §5.112(b) (No change.)

§5.113.Required Use of Seal and Retention of Sealed Documents .

(a) On every original Construction Document prepared by an Interior Designer or under an Interior Designer's Supervision and Control, the Interior Designer shall affix or cause the affixation of:

(1) the Interior Designer's seal;

(2) the Interior Designer's signature (across the face of the seal's image or directly under or adjacent to the seal's image); and

(3) the date of signature (including the month, day, and year of signing) before the Construction Document is issued by or under the authority of the Interior Designer.

(b) The Interior Designer's seal and signature and the date must be clearly visible on each copy of an original Construction Document issued by or under the authority of an Interior Designer.

(c) Construction Documents requiring a seal, signature, and date include the following:

(1) Each sheet of drawings;

(2) Each table of contents and index that lists bound specifications and/or project manuals;

(3) Each specification that is not listed in a table of contents or index;

(4) Each sheet that identifies the project and provides a list of sealed Construction Documents, such as a title sheet, table of contents, or index; and

(5) Each addenda, change order, construction change directive, and other Supplemental Document that alters or clarifies an existing Construction Document.

(d) Each drawing and specification included in a Feasibility Study issued by or under the authority of an Interior Designer must be sealed, signed, and dated in the manner described in subsection (a) of this section.

(e) A drawing or specification issued by or under the authority of an Interior Designer for a purpose other than regulatory approval, permitting, or construction shall include:

(1) the Interior Designer's name;

(2) the Interior Designer's registration number

(3) the date the document is issued (including the month, day, and year of issuance); and

(4) a statement clearly indicating that the drawing or specification may not be used for regulatory approval, permitting, or construction.

(f) For a minimum of ten (10) years from the date of signature on each Construction Document and Feasibility Study sealed by or under the authority of an Interior Designer, the Interior Designer shall be responsible for the maintenance of the sealed, signed, and dated original document or a copy of the document bearing the clearly visible and legible seal, signature, and date.

[ (a) Every registered Interior Designer shall affix his/her seal, actual signature (under the face of the seal's image), and date of signature to all original Construction Documents which are prepared and issued under the authorship or under the Supervision and Control of the Interior Designer for use in Texas. The Interior Designer's seal, signature, and date must be visible on all copies of original Construction Documents issued for use in Texas. Original Construction Documents requiring a seal, signature, and date include the following: ]

[ (1) Each sheet of drawings; ]

[ (2) Each table of contents or index that lists specifications in bound groupings; any individual specification sheet that is not listed in a table of contents or index must be sealed individually; ]

[ (3) Each sheet that identifies the project and lists any sealed Construction Documents, such as a title sheet, table of contents, or index; and ]

[ (4) Addenda, change orders, and supplemental documents. ]

[ (b) Drawings and specifications considered incomplete by the Interior Designer may be used as presentation documents or issued for purposes other than regulatory approval, permit, or construction without the Interior Designer's seal or signature affixed. All incomplete drawings and specifications issued by an Interior Designer must be dated, bear the Interior Designer's name and registration number, and be conspicuously marked to clearly indicate the documents are incomplete and may not be used for regulatory approval, permit, or construction. Incomplete documents issued pursuant to this subsection may be issued in electronic format as long as the documents are dated, bear the Interior Designer's name and registration number, and are conspicuously marked to clearly indicate they are incomplete and may not be used for regulatory approval, permit, or construction. ]

[ (c) An Interior Designer shall not issue drawings or specifications unless they are sealed, signed, and dated pursuant to §5.113(a) or clearly marked to indicate that they are incomplete and may not be used for regulatory approval, permit, or construction pursuant to §5.113(b). ]

[ (d) An Interior Designer shall seal, sign, and date any document issued for regulatory approval, permit, or construction which was prepared by a consultant retained by the Interior Designer who did not affix a professional seal to the document. An Interior Designer is not required to seal documents that have been sealed by other licensed professionals. ]

[ (e) Once documents bearing the Interior Designer's seal are issued from the Interior Designer's office, the seal shall not be removed by any person. ]

[ (f) An Interior Designer may release electronic drawing files with the following statement substituted for the Interior Designer's signature: "This electronic drawing file is released under the authority of {Interior Designer's name, registration number} on {date}, who maintains the original file. This electronic drawing file may be used as a background drawing. Pursuant to Rule 5.113(f) of the Rules and Regulations of the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, the user of this electronic drawing file agrees to assume all responsibility for any modification to or use of this drawing file that is inconsistent with the requirements of the Rules and Regulations of the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners. No person may make any modification to this electronic drawing file without the Interior Designer's express written permission." ]

[ (g) For every project wherein an Interior Designer releases documents for regulatory approval, permit, or construction, the Interior Designer shall maintain a sealed, signed, and dated paper or microform copy of such documents for a minimum of 10 years from the date of substantial completion of the project. ]

[ (h) An Interior Designer may complete, correct, revise, or add to the work of another licensed design professional when engaged to do so by a client as long as all of the following conditions are satisfied: ]

[ (1) the licensed design professional responsible for the original work is notified in writing by the Interior Designer of the engagement immediately upon acceptance of the engagement; ]

[ (2) the work prepared by the Interior Designer or under the Interior Designer's Supervision and Control shall be sealed by and be the responsibility of the Interior Designer; and ]

[ (3) the Interior Designer may not seal or take responsibility for the work prepared by the other licensed design professional which was not prepared under the Interior Designer's Supervision and Control. ]

[ (i) An Interior Designer shall seal, sign, and date any feasibility study issued by the Interior Designer for use in Texas.]

§5.114.Prohibitions.

(a) An Interior Designer may not affix or authorize the affixation of his/her seal to any document unless the document was prepared by the Interior Designer or under the Interior Designer's Supervision and control.

(b) If only a portion of a document was prepared by an Interior Designer or under an Interior Designer's Supervision and Control, the Interior Designer's seal may not be affixed to the document unless:

(1) the portion of the document prepared by the Interior Designer or under the Interior Designer's Supervision and Control is clearly identified; and

(2) it is clearly indicated on the document that the Interior Designer seal applies only to that portion of the document prepared by the Interior Designer or under the Interior Designer's Supervision and Control.

(c) Only the Interior Designer and any person with express written authorization from the Interior Designer may use or attempt to use an Interior Designer's seal. No other person may use or attempt to use:

(1) an Interior Designer's seal;

(2) a copy of an Interior Designer's seal; or

(3) a replica of an Interior Designer's seal.

(d) No person may modify a document bearing an Interior Designer's seal without first obtaining the express written authorization of the Interior Designer and clearly indicating on the document the extent of the modifications made. For purposes of this Subsection, the preparation of a new page or pages to be added to a document bearing an Interior Designer's seal does not constitute a modification of the document. However, the preparation of such a new page or pages is subject to the rules and statutory provisions that regulate the use of the title "interior designer," the use of the term "interior design," and the professional practices of Interior Designers.

(e) Once a document bearing an Interior Designer's seal is issued, the seal may not be removed by any person.

[ (a) An Interior Designer may not affix his/her seal to any document unless the document was prepared by the Interior Designer or under the Interior Designer's Supervision and Control. ]

[ (b) No person, other than the Interior Designer represented, shall use or attempt to use an Interior Designer's seal or shall modify documents bearing an Interior Designer's seal without first obtaining the express written authority of the Interior Designer represented and clearly indicating on the documents the extent of the modifications made. ]

[ (c) The use of signature reproductions such as rubber stamps or computer generated or other facsimiles is not permitted in lieu of actual signatures.]

§5.115.Other Professional Responsibilities.

(a) An Interior Designer shall provide a written statement of jurisdiction to each client for whom the Interior Designer renders interior design services in Texas.

(b) The statement of jurisdiction shall:

(1) state that "The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners has jurisdiction over complaints regarding the professional practices of persons registered as interior designers in Texas";

(2) include the Board's current mailing address and telephone number; and

(3) be placed on the last page of the written contract for interior design services or otherwise presented to the client in writing.

(c) If , in the course of his/her work on an interior design project, an Interior Designer becomes aware of a course of action taken against the Interior Designer's advice which may violate an applicable statute, code, or other regulatory provision which is reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the safe use of the completed project, the Interior Designer shall:

(1) report the course of action in writing to the owner, to the local building official with jurisdiction over the project, and to other responsible parties; and

(2) refuse to consent to the course of action.

[ (a) An Interior Designer shall provide a written Statement of Jurisdiction to each and every client for whom the Interior Designer renders interior design services in Texas. ]

[ (1) The Statement of Jurisdiction shall say, "The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners has jurisdiction over complaints regarding the professional practices of persons registered as Interior Designers in Texas," and shall include the Board's current mailing address and telephone number. ]

[ (2) The Board recommends that the Statement of Jurisdiction be placed on the last page of the written agreement for interior design services. In the absence of a written agreement, the Statement of Jurisdiction shall be otherwise presented to each client in writing. ]

[ (3) The Board recommends that the Statement of Jurisdiction include the address of the Board's web site. ]

[ (b) If, in the course of his/her work on a project, an Interior Designer becomes aware of a course of action taken against the Interior Designer's advice which may violate applicable state or local building laws or regulations and which is likely, in the Interior Designer's judgment, to have a material adverse effect on the safe use of the completed project, the Interior Designer shall do the following: ]

[ (1) report the course of action in writing to the owner, to the local building official(s), and to other responsible parties; and ]

[ (2) refuse to consent to the course of action.]

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on April 21, 2003.

TRD-200302555

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 1, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 305-8535


Part 18. TEXAS STATE BOARD OF PODIATRIC MEDICAL EXAMINERS

Chapter 371. EXAMINATIONS

22 TAC §371.3

The Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners proposes an amendment to §371.3, regarding Qualifications of Applicants. The amendment is being proposed to change the heading to better clarify and reflect the content of the rule.

Allen M. Hymans, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section.

Mr. Hymans has also determined that for each year for the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be that you will be able to find the related text easier. There will not be an effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the amendment.

Comments on or about the proposal may be submitted to Janie Alonzo, Staff Services Officer III, Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners, P.O. Box 12216, Austin, TX 78711-2216, Janie.Alonzo@foot.state.tx.us.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, §202.151, which provides the Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners with the authority to adopt reasonable or necessary rules and bylaws consistent with the law regulating the practice of podiatry, the law of this state, and the law of the United States to govern its proceedings and activities, the regulation of the practice of podiatry and the enforcement of the law regulating the practice of podiatry.

The proposed amendment implements Texas Occupations Code, §202.252.

§371.3.Qualifications for Licensure [ of Applicants ].

(a)-(j) (No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on April 18, 2003.

TRD-200302547

Janie Alonzo

Staff Services Officer III

Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 1, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7000


Chapter 375. RULES GOVERNING CONDUCT

22 TAC §375.3, §375.14

The Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners proposes an amendment to §375.3, regarding Advertising and new §375.14, regarding Reporting Change of Practice Address and/or Phone Number to the Board. The amendments are being proposed to better define what a podiatric physician may or may not do when advertising and removes references to testimonials. The new section sets specific time frames for notifying the board of an address change and sets penalties for non-compliance.

Allen M. Hymans, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the sections are in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local governments as a result of enforcing or administering these sections.

Mr. Hymans has also determined that for each year for the first five years the rules are in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rules will be more restrictions on advertising and easier access to podiatric physicians. There will not be an effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the amendments and new section.

Comments on or about the proposal may be submitted to Janie Alonzo, Staff Services Officer III, Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners, P.O. Box 12216, Austin, TX 78711-2216, Janie.Alonzo@foot.state.tx.us.

The amendments and new section are proposed under Texas Occupations Code, §202.151, which provides the Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners with the authority to adopt reasonable or necessary rules and bylaws consistent with the law regulating the practice of podiatry, the law of this state, and the law of the United States to govern its proceedings and activities, the regulation of the practice of podiatry and the enforcement of the law regulating the practice of podiatry.

The proposed amendments and new section implement Texas Occupations Code, §202.152 and §202.301.

§375.3.Advertising.

(a) A podiatric physician may advertise. A podiatric physician shall not, however, use or participate in the use of any publication, including advertisements, news stories, press releases and periodical articles, that contains a false, fraudulent, misleading, deceptive scientifically unsupported or generally unaccepted, or unfair statement or claim , or that are exaggerations or are untrue .

(b) A false, fraudulent, misleading, deceptive, scientifically unsupported or generally unaccepted or unfair statement or claim includes but is not limited to, a statement or claim that:

(1)-(5) (No change.)

(6) contains any [ testimonial or ] laudatory statement, or other statement or implication that the podiatric physician's [ podiatrist's ] services are of exceptional quality;

(7)-(8) (No change.)

(c)-(g) (No change.)

§375.14.Report Change of Practice Address and/or Phone Number to the Board.

It shall be the responsibility of each licensee to ensure that any change of address or phone number(s) for each licensees location(s) are reported in writing, via e-mail, facsimile or mail to the board no later than 10 business days after the change is made. Failure to give written notification to the board of these changes within the required 10 business days shall result in an automatic administrative penalty of $10, for each business day that the information is not reported to the board. The maximum penalty shall not exceed $300.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on April 18, 2003.

TRD-200302548

Janie Alonzo

Staff Services Officer III

Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 1, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7000


Chapter 378. CONTINUING EDUCATION

22 TAC §378.1

The Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners proposes an amendment to §378.1, regarding Continuing Education Required. The amendments being proposed will change the dates for continuing education cycles, allow CME credit for participating in podiatric medical reviewer training, and more fully describe the requirements for licensees deficient in continuing medical education hours.

Allen M. Hymans, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section.

Mr. Hymans has also determined that for each year for the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will assurance that licensees are attending the required continuing medical education.

Comments on or about the proposal may be submitted to Janie Alonzo, Staff Services Officer III, Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners, P.O. Box 12216, Austin, TX 78711-2216, Janie.Alonzo@foot.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed under Texas Occupations Code, §202.151, which provides the Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners with the authority to adopt reasonable or necessary rules and bylaws consistent with the law regulating the practice of podiatry, the law of this state, and the law of the United States to govern its proceedings and activities, the regulation of the practice of podiatry and the enforcement of the law regulating the practice of podiatry.

The proposed amendments implement Texas Occupations Code, §202.305.

§378.1.Continuing Education Required.

(a)-(f) (No change.)

(g) Attendance in a mandatory Podiatric Medical Reviewer initial training course will receive credit for four CME hours.

(h) Podiatric Medical Reviewers will receive one CME hour per case reviewed. A maximum of four CME hours per biennium are allowed for case reviews.

(i) [ (g) ] These hours of continuing education must be obtained in the 24 month period immediately preceding the year for which the license was issued. The two-year period will begin on November 1 and end on October 31 [ September 1 and end on August 31 ] two years later. The year in which the 30-hour credit requirement must be completed after the original license is issued is every odd-numbered year if the original license was issued in an odd-numbered year and is every even-numbered year if the original license was issued in an even-numbered year. A licensee who completes more than the required 30 hours during the preceding CME period may carry forward a maximum of 10 hours for the next CME period.

(j) [ (h) ] Documentation of CME courses shall be made available to the Board upon request, but should not be sent to the Board via facsimile, or mailed with the annual license renewal form. Each licensee shall maintain the licensee's CME records at the licensee's practice location for four years, evidencing completion of the CME programs completed by the licensee. The Board shall conduct random checks of licensee CME documentation to ensure compliance with this rule.

(k) [ (i) ] A small percentage of podiatric physicians who renew their licenses will be required to produce proof of completion of the CME hours they affirmed obtaining on their annual license renewal notice. The licensees to be reviewed will be chosen randomly out of the pool of annual license renewal forms. Once a licensee has been randomly chosen for the CME audit, he/she will receive a letter requiring the licensee to submit to the Board proof of the hours claimed on the annual renewal form. Original documents will not be required; copies of certificates and forms will be sufficient.

(l) [ (j) ] If the licensee does not comply with the request for CME documentation within 30 days of receipt of the letter, or if the licensee is unable to provide proof of the hours claimed on the annual renewal form, the licensee will be investigated by the Board. If the investigation reveals that the requirement was not met, the licensee may be disciplined. The penalty for non- compliance with the bi-annual CME requirement shall be a letter of reprimand and a minimum $2500 administrative penalty per violation up to the maximum allowed by law.

(m) Licensees that are deficient in CME hours must complete all deficient CME hours and present year CME requirements in order to maintain licensure.

(n) [ (k) ] The Board may assess the continuing education needs of a licensee and require the licensee to attend continuing education courses specified by the Board.

(o) [ (l) ] Continuing education obtained as a part of a disciplinary action is not acceptable credit towards the total of 30 hours required every two years.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on April 18, 2003.

TRD-200302549

Janie Alonzo

Staff Services Officer III

Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 1, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7000


Part 20. TEXAS COMMISSION ON PRIVATE SECURITY

Chapter 422. PROHIBITIONS

22 TAC §422.3, §422.4

The Texas Commission on Private Security proposes new §422.3 and §422.4, concerning Prohibitions.

The new rules concern Return of Equipment and Good Standing Required for Renewal.

Mr. Cliff Grumbles, Executive Director, Texas Commission on Private Security, has determined that for the first five year period the rules are in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Mr. Grumbles also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rules are in effect the public benefit will be the implementation of rules regarding Prohibitions. There will be no fiscal implications for individuals who are required to comply with the rules as proposed. There will be no fiscal implications for small or micro businesses.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mr. Cliff Grumbles, Executive Director, Texas Commission on Private Security, P.O. Box 13509, Austin, Texas 78711-3509.

The new rules are proposed under Chapter 1702, Texas Occupations Code, which provides the Texas Commission on Private Security with the authority "to promulgate all rules and regulations necessary in carrying out the provisions of this Act."

The following is the code that is affected by the new rules: Texas Occupations Code.

§422.3.Return of Equipment.

Licensees, registrants or commissioned security officers shall surrender immediately on demand or not later that the seventh day after termination of employment, any uniform, badge or other item of equipment issued to the licensee, registrant or commissioned security officer by an employer.

§422.4.Good Standing Required for Renewal.

No license, registration, security officer commission or school approval shall be issued or renewed unless the licensee, registrant or commissioned security officer or school is in good standing with the Commission. Good standing includes but is not limited to, compliance with Chapter 1702 Texas Occupations Code and Commission Rules, no default on a student loan with the Texas Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation, a good standing of account status with the Comptroller of Public Accounts, and the payment in full of all administrative penalties assessed against the licensee, registrant, school or commissioned security officer. The Director has the discretion to waive the payment in full of all administrative penalties requirement for license renewal.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on April 21, 2003.

TRD-200302560

Cliff Grumbles

Executive Director

Texas Commission on Private Security

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 1, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 238-5869


Chapter 427. ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS

22 TAC §§427.4 - 427.6

The Texas Commission on Private Security proposes new §§427.4-427.6, concerning Administrative Hearings.

The new rules concern Default Judgments, Trial on the Merits and Appeal.

Mr. Cliff Grumbles, Executive Director, Texas Commission on Private Security, has determined that for the first five year period the rules are in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Mr. Grumbles also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rules are in effect the public benefit will be the implementation of rules regarding Administrative Hearings. There will be no fiscal implications for individuals who are required to comply with the rules as proposed. There will be no fiscal implications for small or micro businesses.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mr. Cliff Grumbles, Executive Director, Texas Commission on Private Security, P.O. Box 13509, Austin, Texas 78711-3509.

The new rules are proposed under Chapter 1702, Texas Occupations Code, which provides the Texas Commission on Private Security with the authority "to promulgate all rules and regulations necessary in carrying out the provisions of this Act."

The following is the code that is affected by the new rules: Texas Occupations Code.

§427.4.Default Judgments.

In cases brought before SOAH in the event that the respondent is adjudged to be in violation of the Private Security Act or Commission Rules, the Commission has the authority to assess, in addition to the penalty imposed, costs of the administrative hearing.

§427.5.Trial on the merits.

In cases brought before SOAH, in the event that the respondent is adjudged to be in violation of the Private Security Act or Commission Rules after a trial on the merits, the Commission has the authority to assess in addition to the penalty imposed the actual costs of the administrative hearing. Such costs include, but are not limited to, investigative costs, witness fees, deposition expenses, travel expenses of witnesses, costs of adjudication before SOAH and any other costs that are necessary for the preparation of the Commission's case including the costs of any transcriptions of testimony.

§427.6.Appeal.

The costs of transcribing the testimony and preparing the record for an appeal by judicial review shall be paid by the respondent.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on April 21, 2003.

TRD-200302561

Cliff Grumbles

Executive Director

Texas Commission on Private Security

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 1, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 238-5869


Chapter 436. SUBSCRIPTION FEES

22 TAC §436.1

The Texas Commission on Private Security proposes new §436.1, concerning Renewal Subscription Fee.

The new rule is necessary pursuant to Senate Bill 187 and Senate Bill 645, 77th Legislature, Regular Session. Each licensee, registrant, or commissioned security officer shall pay the following fee for occupational license renewal; $3.00 for renewals from $20 to $25, $5.00 for renewals from $50 to $100. This fee is in addition to the renewal fee.

Mr. Cliff Grumbles, Executive Director, Texas Commission on Private Security, has determined that for the first five year period the rule is in effect there may be fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule as proposed. The estimate for the subscription fees is $57,777 per year.

Mr. Grumbles also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit will be compliance with Senate Bill 187 and Senate Bill 645, 77th Legislature as well as implementation of a renewal subscription fee. There will be fiscal implications for individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed. There may be fiscal implications for small or micro businesses. Each licensee, registrant, or commissioned security officer shall pay the following fee for occupational license renewal; $3.00 for renewals from $20 to $25, $5.00 for renewals from $50 to $100. This fee is in addition to the renewal fee.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mr. Cliff Grumbles, Executive Director, Texas Commission on Private Security, P.O. Box 13509, Austin, Texas 78711-3509.

The new rule is proposed under Chapter 1702, Texas Occupations Code, which provides the Texas Commission on Private Security with the authority "to promulgate all rules and regulations necessary in carrying out the provisions of this Act."

The following is the code that is affected by the new rule: Texas Occupations Code.

§436.1.Renewal Subscription Fee.

Pursuant to Senate Bill 187 and Senate Bill 645, 77th legislature, regular session, each licensee, registrant, or commissioned security officer shall pay the following fee for occupational license renewal; $3.00 for renewals from $20 to $25, $5.00 for renewals from $50 to $100. This fee is in addition to the renewal fee.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on April 21, 2003.

TRD-200302562

Cliff Grumbles

Executive Director

Texas Commission on Private Security

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 1, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 238-5869