Alabama Administrative Code
Title 485 - ALABAMA STATE BOARD OF REGISTRATION FOR INTERIOR DESIGN
Chapter 485-X-7 - COMPLAINTS AND VIOLATIONS
Section 485-X-7-.07 - Unlicensed Use Of Titles And Terms

(1) If the Board determines that an individual not issued a Certificate of Registration or Authorization as a registered interior designer uses the titles and/or terms "interior designer", "interior design", interior design consultant", "interior design services", "registered interior designer", "registered interior design", "registered interior design consultant", "registered interior design services", in any sign, card, listing, advertising, business name, stationary or any other manner implies or indicates that he or she is an interior design or registered interior designer, the Board shall issue a written notice by certified mail, return receipt requested and addressed to the last known place of business or residence of the individual.

(2) A written response from the respondent is required within fifteen (15) working days of date of the notice. If a written response is not received from the respondent within the designated time period, the Deputy Attorney General Designee or other individual designated by the Chairman shall issue a second notice to the respondent. A written response from the respondent is required within fifteen (15) working days of date of the second notice. If a written response is not received from the respondent within the designated time period, the Deputy Attorney General Designee or other individual designated by the Chairman shall issue a final notice to the respondent. A written response from the respondent is required within fifteen (15) working days of date of the final notice. All notices shall be sent certified mail with a return receipt requested.

(3) The failure to submit a written response to notices from the Board without good cause shall be deemed an admission of guilt by the respondent and the Board shall take further action against the respondent. The Board may at its sole discretion publish such disciplinary action or its findings in a newspaper of general circulation in the state of Alabama.

(4) An individual who uses the titles or terms without possessing a Certificate of Registration or Authorization as a registered interior designer shall be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. The Board may impose fines and penalties pursuant to state law. If the Board is required to seek enforcement of the order for a penalty, it shall be entitled to collect its attorneys' fee and costs, together with any costs of collection.

Author: Alabama State Board of Registration for Interior Design