TITLE 22.EXAMINING BOARDS

Part 1. TEXAS BOARD OF ARCHITECTURAL EXAMINERS

Chapter 1. ARCHITECTS

Subchapter A. SCOPE; DEFINITIONS

22 TAC §1.5

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to §1.5 concerning definitions used in Chapter 1. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 3, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 10708). The amendment is being adopted with change. The change clarifies the definitions for Construction Documents and Supervision and Control, and eliminates the proposed definition for Construction Administration Services.

The amendment will add additional terms to the list of terms provided. The definitions have been added in order to clarify rules found in other chapters.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted under §3(b) of the Architects' Registration Law, Article 249a, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provides the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules necessary to the proper administration of the Act.

§1.5. Terms Defined Herein.

The following words and terms, when used in these rules, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1)

APA -- Administrative Procedure Act, Government Code, Chapter 2001.

(2)

Applicant -- An individual who has submitted an application for registration.

(3)

Architect -- An individual currently registered to practice architecture in the State of Texas.

(4)

Architect(s)-of-responsibility -- The architect(s) through whom a firm is authorized to offer/perform architectural services and/or whose architect's(s') seal(s) and signature(s) appears on contract documents issued from that firm.

(5)

Architects' registration law -- Regulation of the practice of architecture, Texas Civil Statutes, Article 249a.

(6)

Architectural plans -- Graphic floor plans which describe the functional relationships and intended use of space, exitways, and the control of architectural barriers in habitable buildings.

(7)

Architecturally related documents -- Supplemental instructions; change orders; graphic exterior elevations which describe the form, aesthetics, and appearance of habitable buildings; and construction of details describing the assembly and installation of construction components of habitable buildings, excluding structural, mechanical, and electrical systems.

(8)

Architectural specifications -- Written descriptions of materials, and construction features in relation to quality, color, pattern, performance characteristics, and workmanship requirements for components involved in the construction of habitable buildings, excluding structural, mechanical, and electrical systems.

(9)

ARE -- The current architect registration examination, prepared by NCARB.

(10)

Candidate -- An individual who has qualified for examination.

(11)

Construction Documents -- Plans, specifications, and related documents issued by an architect, landscape architect, or interior designer for the purpose(s) of regulatory approval, permit, or construction.

(12)

Contract documents -- Documents issued for permits, or construction purposes, consisting of architectural plans, specifications, and related documents.

(13)

Coordination of consultant's work -- Comparative review by the architect of the construction documents as prepared by the architect and by each of his or her consultants for the purpose of revealing possible conflicts and omissions and for observing the consultant's proper seal or other certification applied to his or her own work. Revisions necessary for coordination shall remain the responsibility of the consultants.

(14)

Direct Supervision -- That degree of supervision by a person overseeing the work of another whereby the supervisor and the individual being supervised work in close proximity to one another and the supervisor has both control over and detailed professional knowledge of the work prepared under his or her supervision.

(15)

Emeritus Status -- An honorary title that allows a retired architect who no longer wishes to actively practice architecture to retain his or her professional title but does not confer the right to practice as a registered professional.

(16)

IDP -- Intern development program.

(17)

IDP applicant -- An individual who is obtaining the IDP diversified experience requirements set forth in the Texas Table of Diversified Experience Requirements for IDP, and has submitted an application for registration to the board.

(18)

Institutional residential facility -- Any building intended for occupancy of persons on a 24-hour basis who are receiving custodial care from the proprietors or operators of the building.

(19)

NAAB -- National Architectural Accrediting Board.

(20)

NCARB -- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards.

(21)

Principal -- An individual who is an architect, and in charge of an organization's architectural practice, either alone or with other architects.

(22)

Registrant -- See architect.

(23)

Responsible Charge -- That degree of control over and detailed knowledge of the content of technical submissions during their preparation as is ordinarily exercised by registered architects applying the required professional standard of care.

(24)

Supervision and Control -- Supervision by an architect overseeing the work of another whereby:

(A)

the supervisor and the individual being supervised can document frequent and detailed communication with one another and the supervisor has both control over and detailed professional knowledge of the work; or

(B)

the supervisor is in responsible charge of the work and the person performing the work is employed by the supervisor or by the supervisor's employer.

(25)

Table of equivalents -- The table of education and experience qualifications used by the board to qualify candidates for examination.

(26)

TBAE -- Texas Board of Architectural Examiners.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 16, 2000.

TRD-200001975

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 5, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 3, 1999

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


Subchapter E. FEES

22 TAC §1.88

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to §1.88 concerning fees. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11663). The amendment is being adopted with change. The change involves restating subsection (a) to eliminate cumbersome language and put the sentence pertaining to the amount of the annual renewal fee in a new subsection (d).

The section describes the circumstances under which a registrant may apply for emeritus status and the limitations placed on emeritus registrants.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted under §3(b) of the Architects' Registration Law, Article 249a, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provides the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules necessary to the proper administration of the Act.

§1.88. Emeritus Fee.

(a)

An architect may apply for emeritus status on a form provided by the Board if the architect is:

(1)

62 years of age or older;

(2)

Currently registered to practice architecture in Texas; and

(3)

Not delinquent in any fees.

(b)

An applicant shall not be granted emeritus status unless the applicant has retired from the practice of architecture. An emeritus architect who practices architecture shall be subject to disciplinary action by the Board.

(c)

A registrant who has been granted emeritus status may have his/her registration reinstated in the same manner as a registrant who has been revoked for any cause.

(d)

The annual renewal fee for approved emeritus architects shall be as prescribed by the Board.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 16, 2000.

TRD-200001976

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 5, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


Subchapter F. ARCHITECT'S SEAL

22 TAC §1.106

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts new rule, §1.106 concerning an architect's responsibility for providing clients with information regarding the Board's jurisdiction over an architect's professional practice. The proposal to create this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11668). The new rule is being adopted with change. The phrase "Statement of Certification" has been changed to "Statement of Jurisdiction" throughout the rule.

The section restates and renumbers an existing provision.

This new rule is adopted as a result of the agency's review of Title 22, Chapter 1, Subchapter F as mandated by Article IX of the General Appropriations Act.

There were no comments pertaining to this new rule.

The new rule is adopted pursuant to §3 and §12b of Article 249a, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provide the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules regarding notification to clients of the Board's address and telephone number.

§1.106.Other Professional Responsibilities .

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.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 17, 2000.

TRD-200002002

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 6, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


Subchapter J. COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

22 TAC §1.191

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to Chapter 1, Subchapter J, §1.191 concerning procedures for addressing complaints against registrants and nonregistrants. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11669). The amendment is being adopted with change. The change involves correcting the title of the statutes mentioned in subsection (a) and a grammatical change in subsection (a)(1).

The section sets forth Board policies regarding complaints against registrants and nonregistrants. The amendment to §1.191 clarifies that the Board may seek injunctions and restraining orders against registrants and nonregistrants and may impose administrative penalties against persons who violate the Architects' Registration Law.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted pursuant to §3 and §5(c) of Article 249a, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provide the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules and take action to enforce them.

§1.191.General.

(a)

The Architects' Registration Law (the Act), Article 249a, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, is specific in its provisions authorizing the lawful practice of architecture. It is equally specific in charging the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with responsibility for enforcement of the Act. The statute exempts certain persons from provisions of the Act, but otherwise, unregistered persons are liable for violations:

(1)

The Board has authority to seek misdemeanor convictions, injunctions, and restraining orders and to impose administrative penalties against persons using some form of the title "architect" or offering or performing architectural services improperly.

(2)

Each day that a violation occurs or continues may be considered a separate violation.

(b)

Complaints alleging violations of the Act or Board rules must be made in good faith and be accompanied by sufficient information or factual evidence for the Executive Director to establish probable cause. If the Executive Director does not find probable cause, he/she shall be authorized to dismiss the allegation without further action. The Board is not responsible for proving the basis of a complaint.

(c)

Complaints shall normally be submitted in writing along with copies or originals of all supporting evidence; however, the Executive Director may initiate an inquiry based on any information that will establish probable cause.

(d)

The Board will act only when the basis of the complaint would be a violation of the Act or Board rules if substantiated.

(e)

If a valid complaint, accompanied by sufficient information or factual evidence to establish probable cause, is filed with the Executive Director, the Board may proceed independent of any action by the complainant to enter into litigation with the defendant or to abandon the complaint.

(f)

The Board may, upon request, keep the identity of the complainant confidential to the extent permitted by law.

(g)

The Board office shall maintain a separate file containing all information in connection with complaints, charges, hearings in connections with such charges, and the action of the Board in each case.

(h)

On each written complaint filed with the Board, a report to the complainant shall be made at least as frequently as quarterly on the status of the complaint until the final disposition of the complaint.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 16, 2000.

TRD-200001977

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 5, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


22 TAC §1.193

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to Chapter 1, Subchapter J, §1.193 concerning procedures for addressing complaints against registrants. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11669). The amendment is being adopted without changes. The text of the section will not be republished.

The section sets forth Board policies and procedures regarding complaints against registrants. The amendment to §1.193 merely clarifies the language of the current rule.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted pursuant to §3 of Article 249a, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provide the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 15, 2000.

TRD-200001955

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 4, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


Subchapter K. PRACTICE; ARCHITECT REQUIRED

22 TAC §1.213

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to Chapter 1, Subchapter K, §1.213 concerning when the services of a registered architect are required. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11671). The amendment is being adopted without changes. The text of the section will not be republished.

The section describes the circumstances under which a registered architect must prepare the architectural plans, specifications, addenda, change orders, and supplementary instructions for any alterations or addition to an existing building involving structural changes which require the professional services of a registered professional engineer or which involve exitway changes affecting the building's egress by more than 50 building occupants. The amendment improves the grammar of the rule in order to clarify its meaning but does not alter the meaning.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted under §3(b) of the Architects' Registration Law, Article 249a, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provides the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules necessary to the proper administration of the Act.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 15, 2000.

TRD-200001956

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 4, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


22 TAC §1.216

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts new rule, §1.216 to Subchapter K of Chapter 1 concerning what type of construction requires the professional services of a registered architect. The proposal to create this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11672.) The new rule is being adopted with change. The term "and/or" was changed to "or" in the first sentence of the section.

Rule, §1.216 requires an architect to report any course of action taken against the architect's advice which may violate applicable state or local building laws and/or regulations and which, in the architect's judgment, will have a material adverse effect on the safe use of the completed building. The change has been proposed in order to clarify an existing obligation and to re-categorize an existing rule so that it now appears with other similar rules.

There were no comments pertaining to this new rule.

The new rule is adopted under §3(b) of the Architects' Registration Law, Article 249a, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provides the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules necessary to the proper administration of the Act.

§1.216. Other Professional Responsibilities.

If, in the course of his/her work on a project, an architect becomes aware of a course of action taken against the architect's advice which may violate applicable state or local building laws or regulations and which is likely, in the architect's judgment, to have a material adverse effect on the safe use of the completed building, the architect 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 adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 17, 2000.

TRD-200002003

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 6, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


Chapter 3. LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

Subchapter A. SCOPE; DEFINITIONS

22 TAC §3.5

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to §3.5 concerning definitions used in Chapter 3. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 3, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 10709). The amendment is being adopted with change. The change clarifies the definitions for Construction Documents and Supervision and Control, and eliminates the proposed definition for Construction Administration Services.

The amendment will add additional terms to the list of terms provided. The definitions have been added in order to clarify rules found in other chapters.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted under §4(a) of the Landscape Architects' Registration Law, Article 249c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provides the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules necessary to the proper administration of the Act.

§3.5. Terms Defined Herein.

The following words and terms, when used in these rules, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1)

APA -- Administrative Procedure Act, Government Code, Chapter 2001.

(2)

Applicant -- An individual who has submitted an application for registration.

(3)

Candidate -- An individual who has qualified for examination.

(4)

CLARB -- Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards.

(5)

Construction Documents -- Plans, specifications, and related documents issued by an architect, landscape architect, or interior designer for the purpose(s) of regulatory approval, permit, or construction.

(6)

Contract documents -- Documents issued for bidding, permit, or contract construction purposes, consisting of drawings, specifications, addenda, or change orders.

(7)

Coordination of consultant's work -- Comparative review by the landscape architect of the construction documents as prepared by the landscape architect and by each of his/her consultants for the purpose of revealing possible conflicts and omissions and for observing the consultant's proper seal or other certification applied to his/her own work. Revisions necessary for coordination shall remain the responsibility of the consultants.

(8)

Direct Supervision -- That degree of supervision by a person overseeing the work of another whereby the supervisor and the individual being supervised work in close proximity to one another and the supervisor has both control over and detailed professional knowledge of the work prepared under his or her supervision.

(9)

Emeritus Status -- An honorary title that allows a retired landscape architect who no longer wishes to actively practice landscape architecture to retain his or her professional title but does not confer the right to practice as a registered professional.

(10)

LAAB -- Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board.

(11)

LARE -- Landscape Architect Registration Examination, prepared by CLARB.

(12)

Landscape architect -- An individual currently registered to practice landscape architecture in the State of Texas.

(13)

Landscape architect(s)-of-responsibility -- The landscape architect(s) through whom a firm is authorized to offer/perform landscape architectural services and/or whose landscape architect(s') seal(s) and signature(s) appears on contract documents issued from that firm.

(14)

Landscape Architects' Registration Law -- Regulation of the Practice of Landscape Architecture, Texas Civil Statutes, Article 249c.

(15)

Principal -- An individual who is a landscape architect and in charge of an organization's landscape architecture practice, either alone or with others.

(16)

Registrant -- See landscape architect.

(17)

Responsible Charge -- That degree of control over and detailed knowledge of the content of technical submissions during their preparation as is ordinarily exercised by registered landscape architects applying the required professional standard of care.

(18)

Supervision and Control -- Supervision by a landscape architect overseeing the work of another whereby:

(A)

the supervisor and the individual being supervised can document frequent and detailed communication with one another and the supervisor has both control over and detailed professional knowledge of the work; or

(B)

the supervisor is in responsible charge of the work and the person performing the work is employed by the supervisor or by the supervisor's employer.

(19)

TBAE -- Texas Board of Architectural Examiners.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 16, 2000.

TRD-200001978

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 5, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 3, 1999

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


Subchapter B. REGISTRATION

22 TAC §3.21

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to §3.21 concerning requirements for individuals applying for landscape architectural registration. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11673). The amendment is being adopted with change. The change is to replace cumbersome wording and further clarify certain terms used in the rule.

The section sets forth the requirements which must be met before an individual may take the Landscape Architect Registration Examination in the State of Texas. The section requires such an individual to have received a professional degree from a landscape architectural education program accredited by the Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board and have successfully completed two years' actual experience working directly under a licensed landscape architect. The section provides that any individual who began his or her landscape architectural education or experience before September 1, 1999, shall be subject to the rules and regulations in effect at that time. The amendment will ensure that all individuals applying for landscape architectural registration in the State of Texas will have satisfied certain educational and experiential requirements determined necessary by the Board to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the State of Texas.

There were no comments pertaining to this amendment.

The amendment is adopted under §4(a) of the Landscape Architects' Registration Law, Article 249c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provides the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules necessary to the proper administration of the Act.

This proposed amendment does not affect any other statutes.

§3.21.Eligibility.

(a)

An applicant for landscape architectural registration by examination in Texas shall have received a professional degree from a landscape architectural education program accredited by the Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board (LAAB) and shall successfully demonstrate that he/she has completed not less than two years' actual experience working directly under a licensed landscape architect or other experience approved by the Board.

(b)

An applicant for landscape architectural registration by examination who commenced his/her education or experience in landscape architecture prior to September 1, 1999, shall be subject to the rules and regulations in effect at that time.

(c)

For purposes of this section, an applicant shall be considered to have "commenced" his/her landscape architectural education upon enrollment in an acceptable landscape architectural education program.

(d)

Effective August 16, 1996, applicants for the June 1997 and subsequent Landscape Architect Registration Examination administrations shall process their applications through the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB).

(e)

Pursuant to the provisions of §231.302 of the Texas Family Code, each applicant shall submit his/her social security number on forms prescribed by the Board. Such information shall be considered confidential as stated in §231.302(e) of the Texas Family Code.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 17, 2000.

TRD-200002004

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 6, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


Subchapter E. FEES

22 TAC §3.88

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to §3.88 concerning fees. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11674). The amendment is being adopted with change. The change involves restating subsection (a) to eliminate cumbersome language and put the sentence pertaining to the amount of the annual renewal fee in a new subsection (d).

The section describes the circumstances under which a registrant may apply for emeritus status and the limitations placed on emeritus registrants.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted under §4(a) of the Landscape Architects' Registration Law, Article 249c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provides the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules necessary to the proper administration of the Act.

§3.88. Emeritus Fee.

(a)

A landscape architect may apply for emeritus status on a form provided by the Board if the landscape architect is:

(1)

62 years of age or older;

(2)

Currently registered to practice landscape architecture in Texas; and

(3)

Not delinquent in any fees.

(b)

An applicant shall not be granted emeritus status unless the applicant has retired from the practice of landscape architecture. An emeritus landscape architect who practices landscape architecture shall be subject to disciplinary action by the Board.

(c)

A registrant who has been granted emeritus status may have his/her registration reinstated in the same manner as a registrant who has been revoked for any cause.

(d)

The annual renewal fee for approved emeritus landscape architects shall be as prescribed by the Board.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 16, 2000.

TRD-200001979

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 5, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


Subchapter J. COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

22 TAC §3.191

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to Chapter 3, Subchapter J, §3.191 concerning procedures for addressing complaints against registrants and nonregistrants. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11677). The amendment is being adopted with change. The change involves correcting the title of the statutes mentioned in subsection (a) and a grammatical change in subsection (a)(1).

The section sets forth Board policies regarding complaints against registrants and nonregistrants. The amendment to §3.191 clarifies that the Board may enforce the provisions of the Landscape Architects' Registration Law pertaining to the use of the title "landscape architect" by imposing administrative penalties against nonregistrants.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted pursuant to §4 and §8 of Article 249c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provide the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules and take action to force them.

§3.191. General.

(a)

The Landscape Architects' Registration Law (the Act), Article 249c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, is specific in its provisions authorizing the lawful use of the title "landscape architect" and the term "landscape architecture." It is equally specific in charging the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with responsibility for enforcement of the Act. The statute exempts certain persons from provisions of the Act, but otherwise, unregistered persons are liable for violations:

(1)

The Board has authority to seek injunctions and restraining orders and to impose administrative penalties against persons using the title "landscape architect" or offering or performing landscape architectural services improperly.

(2)

Each day that a violation occurs or continues may be considered a separate violation.

(b)

Complaints alleging violations of the Act or Board rules must be made in good faith and be accompanied by sufficient information or factual evidence for the Executive Director to establish probable cause. If the Executive Director does not find probable cause, he/she shall be authorized to dismiss the allegation without further action. The Board is not responsible for proving the basis of a complaint.

(c)

Complaints shall normally be submitted in writing along with copies or originals of all supporting evidence; however, the Executive Director may initiate an inquiry based on any information that will establish probable cause.

(d)

The Board will act only when the basis of the complaint would be a violation of the Act or Board rules if substantiated.

(e)

If a valid complaint, accompanied by sufficient information or factual evidence to establish probable cause, is filed with the Executive Director, the Board may proceed independent of any action by the complainant to enter into litigation with the defendant or to abandon the complaint.

(f)

The Board may, upon request, keep the identity of the complainant confidential to the extent permitted by law.

(g)

The Board office shall maintain a separate file containing all information in connection with complaints, charges, hearings in connections with such charges, and the action of the Board in each case.

(h)

On each written complaint filed with the Board, a report to the complainant shall be made at least as frequently as quarterly on the status of the complaint until the final disposition of the complaint.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 16, 2000.

TRD-200001980

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 5, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


22 TAC §3.193

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to Chapter 3, Subchapter J, §3.193 concerning procedures for addressing complaints against registrants. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11677). The amendment is being adopted without changes. The text of the section will not be republished.

The section sets forth Board policies and procedures regarding complaints against registrants. The amendment to §3.193 merely clarifies the language of the current rule.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted pursuant to §4 of Article 249c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes which provide the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 15, 2000.

TRD-200001957

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 4, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


Chapter 5. INTERIOR DESIGNERS

Subchapter A. SCOPE; DEFINITIONS

22 TAC §5.5

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to §5.5 concerning definitions used in Chapter 5. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 3, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 10710). The amendment is being adopted with change. The change clarifies the definitions for Construction Documents and Supervision and Control, and eliminates the proposed definition for Construction Administration Services.

The amendment will add additional terms to the list of terms provided. The definitions have been added in order to clarify rules found in other chapters.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted under §5(d) of the Interior Designers' Registration Law, Article 249e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provides the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules necessary to the proper administration of the Act.

§5.5. Terms Defined Herein.

The following words and terms, when used in these rules, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1)

APA -- Administrative Procedure Act, Government Code, Chapter 2001.

(2)

Applicant -- An individual who has submitted an application for registration.

(3)

Candidate -- An individual who has qualified for examination.

(4)

Construction Documents -- Plans, specifications, and related documents issued by an architect, landscape architect, or interior designer for the purpose(s) of regulatory approval, permit, or construction.

(5)

Contract documents -- Documents issued for permits, or construction purposes, consisting of plans, specifications, and related documents.

(6)

Coordination of consultant's work -- Comparative review by the interior designer of the construction documents as prepared by the interior designer and by each of his or her consultants for the purpose of revealing possible conflicts and omissions and for observing the consultant's proper seal or other certification applied to his or her own work. Revisions necessary for coordination shall remain the responsibility of the consultants.

(7)

Direct Supervision -- That degree of supervision by a person overseeing the work of another whereby the supervisor and the individual being supervised work in close proximity to one another and the supervisor has both control over and detailed professional knowledge of the work prepared under his or her supervision.

(8)

Emeritus Status -- An honorary title that allows a retired interior designer who no longer wishes to actively practice interior design to retain his or her professional title but does not confer the right to practice as a registered professional.

(9)

FIDER -- Foundation for Interior Design Education Research.

(10)

Interior designer -- An individual currently registered to use the title "interior designer" and authorized to offer or perform "interior design" services in the State of Texas.

(11)

Interior Designers' Registration Law -- Regulation of the Practice of Interior Design, Texas Civil Statutes, Article 249e.

(12)

NCIDQ -- National Council for Interior Design Qualification.

(13)

Principal -- An individual who is an interior designer, and in charge of an organization's interior design practice, either alone or with other interior designers.

(14)

Registrant -- See interior designer.

(15)

Responsible Charge -- That degree of control over and detailed knowledge of the content of technical submissions during their preparation as is ordinarily exercised by registered interior designers applying the required professional standard of care.

(16)

Supervision and Control -- Supervision by an interior designer overseeing the work of another whereby:

(A)

the supervisor and the individual being supervised can document frequent and detailed communication with one another and the supervisor has both control over and detailed professional knowledge of the work; or

(B)

the supervisor is in responsible charge of the work and the person performing the work is employed by the supervisor or by the supervisor's employer.

(17)

Table of Equivalents -- The latest edition of the document used by the board to qualify candidates for examination, entitled Table of Equivalents for Education and Experience in Interior Design.

(18)

TBAE -- Texas Board of Architectural Examiners.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 16, 2000.

TRD-200001981

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 5, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 3, 1999

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


Subchapter E. FEES

22 TAC §5.99

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to §5.99 concerning fees. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11681). The amendment is being adopted with change. The change involves restating subsection (a) to eliminate cumbersome language and put the sentence pertaining to the amount of the annual renewal fee in a new subsection (d).

The section describes the circumstances under which a registrant may apply for emeritus status and the limitations placed on emeritus registrants.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted under §5(d) of the Interior Designers' Registration Law, Article 249e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provides the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules necessary to the proper administration of the Act.

§5.99. Emeritus Fee.

(a)

An interior designer may apply for emeritus status on a form provided by the Board if the interior designer is:

(1)

62 years of age or older;

(2)

Currently registered to practice interior design in Texas; and

(3)

Not delinquent in any fees.

(b)

An applicant shall not be granted emeritus status unless the applicant has retired from the practice of interior design. An emeritus interior designer who practices interior design shall be subject to disciplinary action by the Board.

(c)

A registrant who has been granted emeritus status may have his/her registration reinstated in the same manner as a registrant who has been revoked for any cause.

(d)

The annual renewal fee for approved emeritus interior designers shall be as prescribed by the Board.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 16, 2000.

TRD-200001982

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 5, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


Subchapter J. COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

22 TAC §5.201

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to Chapter 5, Subchapter J, §5.201 concerning procedures for addressing complaints against registrants and nonregistrants. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11684). The amendment is being adopted with change. The change involves correcting the title of the statutes mentioned in subsection (a) and a grammatical change in subsection (a)(1).

The section sets forth Board policies regarding complaints against registrants and nonregistrants. The amendment to §5.201 clarifies that the Board may enforce the provisions of the Interior Designers' Registration Law pertaining to the use of the title "interior designer" by seeking misdemeanor convictions, injunctions, and restraining orders, and by imposing administrative penalties against nonregistrants.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted pursuant to §5 and §17 of Article 249e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provides the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules and take action to enforce them.

§5.201. General .

(a)

The Interior Designers' Registration Law (the Act), Article 249e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, is specific in its provisions authorizing the lawful use of the title "interior designer" and the term "interior design." It is equally specific in charging the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with responsibility for enforcement of the Act. The statute exempts certain persons from provisions of the Act, but otherwise, unregistered persons are liable for violations:

(1)

The Board has authority to seek misdemeanor convictions, injunctions, and restraining orders and to impose administrative penalties against persons using the title "interior designer" or offering or performing "interior design" services improperly.

(2)

Each day that a violation occurs or continues may be considered a separate violation.

(b)

Complaints alleging violations of the Act or Board rules must be made in good faith and be accompanied by sufficient information or factual evidence for the Executive Director to establish probable cause. If the Executive Director does not find probable cause, he/she shall be authorized to dismiss the allegation without further action. The Board is not responsible for proving the basis of a complaint.

(c)

Complaints shall normally be submitted in writing along with copies or originals of all supporting evidence; however, the Executive Director may initiate an inquiry based on any information that will establish probable cause.

(d)

The Board will act only when the basis of the complaint would be a violation of the Act or Board rules if substantiated.

(e)

If a valid complaint, accompanied by sufficient information or factual evidence to establish probable cause, is filed with the Executive Director, the Board may proceed independent of any action by the complainant to enter into litigation with the defendant or to abandon the complaint.

(f)

The Board may, upon request, keep the identity of the complainant confidential to the extent permitted by law.

(g)

The Board office shall maintain a separate file containing all information in connection with complaints, charges, hearings in connections with such charges, and the action of the Board in each case.

(h)

On each written complaint filed with the Board, a report to the complainant shall be made at least as frequently as quarterly on the status of the complaint until the final disposition of the complaint.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 16, 2000.

TRD-200001983

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 5, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


22 TAC §5.203

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners adopts the amendment to Chapter 5, Subchapter J, §5.203 concerning procedures for addressing complaints against registrants. The proposal to amend this rule was published in the December 24, 1999, issue of the Texas Register (24 TexReg 11685). The amendment is being adopted without changes. The text of the section will not be republished.

The section sets forth Board policies and procedures regarding complaints against registrants. The amendment to §5.203 merely clarifies the language of the current rule.

No comments were received concerning this amendment.

The amendment is adopted pursuant to §3 of Article 249e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, which provide the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners with authority to promulgate rules.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 15, 2000.

TRD-200001958

Cathy L. Hendricks, ASID/IIDA

Executive Director

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

Effective date: April 4, 2000

Proposal publication date: December 24, 1999

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


Part 12. BOARD OF VOCATIONAL NURSE EXAMINERS

Chapter 235. LICENSING

Subchapter D. ISSUANCE OF LICENSES

22 TAC §235.49

The Board of Vocational Nurse Examiners adopts the amendment of §235.49 relative to emeritus license with changes to the proposed text published in the February 4, 2000, issue of the Texas Register (25 TexReg 669).

The change to the text is in subsection (a). The word "intent" was printed instead of the word "intend".

The amendment is adopted to allow individuals who are retired or medically disabled the opportunity to pay a one time fee for an emeritus license. It is a license of honor for years of dedicated service as a licensed vocational nurse. As currently managed, this license must be renewed every two years for the same fee as the active license. Because most of these licensees are on a fixed income due to retirement or serious medical disability and have no intention of working, the Board proposes changing the format. However, this license cannot be reactivated under the proposed amendment.

No comments were received relative to the adoption of this amendment.

The amendment is adopted under Texas Civil Statutes, Chapter 302 Occupations Code, Subchapter D, §302.151 (b), which provides the Board of Vocational Nurse Examiners with the authority to make such rules and regulations as may be necessary to carry in effect the purposes of the law.

§235.49. Emeritus License.

(a)

A licensee who is in good standing, but does not intend to seek gainful employment as a licensed vocational nurse any longer and would like to maintain licensure, may obtain emeritus status by:

(1)

submitting a written request; and

(2)

submitting the required fees.

(b)

Emeritus status is reserved primarily for individuals who are retired or medically disabled.

(c)

Issuance of an Emeritus license is a permanent action. The Emeritus license is not subject to renewal or reactivation.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 14, 2000.

TRD-200001916

Mary M. Strange, RN, BSN, CNA

Executive Director

Board of Vocational Nurse Examiners

Effective date: April 3, 2000

Proposal publication date: February 4, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7653