ASID Announces Legislative Policies for 2009

The address, acknowledging the effect the downturn economy has had on the industry, pledges ASID’s continuous support to its members.

BY LAUREL PETRIELLO — via: INTERIOR DESIGN, 3/9/2009

In an effort put concerns to rest that their practices and policies may be harmful to interior designers, Michael Alin, Hon. FASID, executive director of American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), recently addressed the society’s allied and professional members to clarify their legislative policies for 2009.

The address, acknowledging the effect the downturn economy has had on the industry, pledges the continuous support of ASID to assist members’ firms and expand the legal recognition of the interior design profession. Alin also vows the society’s efforts to preserve the right to offer design services, as well as ensure interior design services that are considered legal today will remain legal in the future.

ASID’s 2009 legislative policies reflect their commitment to only support interior design legislation that:

• does not restrict anyone from using the title “interior design” or “interior designer”
• does not restrict the practice of interior design not regulated by building code or other statute
• does not prevent individuals from offering services such as selection of colors, materials and finishes or selection and specification of furniture, fixtures, and equipment, so long as those services do not affect building code or other statute
• allows state-qualified interior designers to use the title “registered,” “certified,” or “licensed” interior designer
• creates opportunities for designers to practice to the fullest extent of their abilities

In closing, Alin stressed that ASID is “committted to ensuring the long term growth of the interior design profession and the success” of its members’ businesses. He further states the society is “looking to the future and working to create more opportunities for tomorrow’s designer.”

See a video of Alin’s address on the ASID Web site. Members with questions regarding the policies are urged to consult ASID at feedback@asid.org.