The House Committee on Economic Competitiveness heard testimony on two related bills that would change licensure requirements for architects and the ownership composition of design firms.

Representative Bonac, sponsor of House Bill 4913, told the committee that HB 4913 "proposes an important update to section 2004 of the occupational code of 1980, specifically regarding the licensure requirements for architects. The bill would allow apprenticeships to count toward the professional experience requirement needed for licensure." He said the proposal would still require a professional degree or equivalent credential, the required examinations and documentation of good moral character, with the important addition that "an apprenticeship may now satisfy this requirement." Representative Altman, who introduced House Bill 4914, said it would "remove the requirement that two-thirds of our firm's principals be licensed to practice architecture, engineering, or surveying," which he described as a barrier to new firms.

Supporters told the committee the changes come from a LARA (Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs) red-tape report and are intended to modernize pathways into the professions and promote business formation, including in rural areas. Paige Fultz of LARA said the agency had submitted recommendations and was "working with lawmakers on both sides"; she said LARA did not yet have an official position but was engaged in drafting implementation details and language changes.

Opponents included Tom Reeder, vice president of Michigan AIA (American Institute of Architects), who told the panel, "We are not in favor of this bill. Reducing the education requirements is not in the interest of the public." Reeder asked the committee to delay action and work with NCARB (National Council of Architectural Registration Boards), NAAB (National Architectural Accrediting Board) and other stakeholders to design an alternative pathway that preserves public-safety protections. Ron Brink of the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) said the ACEC "cannot support" eliminating degree requirements for engineers and raised concerns that lowering education standards could imperil public safety and create reciprocity problems with other states.

Committee members asked technical questions about the bills' language and the scope of changes. Representative Grant asked whether HB 4913 would require a degree in addition to apprenticeship; Bonac responded that applicants would still need a professional degree and that the apprenticeship would help satisfy the experience requirement. Members pressed Altman and witnesses about the rationale for the two-thirds ownership requirement; supporters said the requirement was uncommon nationally and LARA's report recommended removal, while ACEC and AIA witnesses said the rule helps ensure that company decisions affecting public safety are made by licensed professionals.

Sponsors and witnesses said they expect continued drafting and stakeholder discussions before any final committee action. No formal vote on either bill was recorded during the hearing.

Next steps: sponsors said they will work with LARA and professional boards on language changes and that the committee process exists "to get opposition, support and massage this through," as Chair Hoadley said during the hearing.