| SUMMARY OF: | A Sunset Review of the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development State Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors. |
Purpose of the Report
In accordance with Title 24 and Title 44 of the Alaska Statutes, sunset legislation, we have reviewed the activities of the State Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors (BRAELS or board). The purpose of this audit was to determine if there is a demonstrated public need for the continued existence of the board.
Report Conclusions
Under AS 08.03.010(c)(3), the State Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors will terminate on June 30, 2009. If the legislature does not take action to extend the board’s termination date, AS 08.03.020 provides that the board will have one year in which to conclude its administrative operations.
In our opinion, the termination date for the board should be extended. BRAELS serves a public purpose and has demonstrated an ability to conduct its business in a satisfactory manner. The registration of qualified architects, engineers, land surveyors, and landscape architects benefits the public’s safety and welfare. We recommend that the legislature extend the termination date of the board until June 30, 2017.
Findings and Recommendations
Recommendation No. 1
- The Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing, in conjunction with BRAELS, should review registration fees as provided by statute and consider decreasing fees.
- The director of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing should ensure that BRAELS registrants that are Corporations, Limited Liability Companies (LLC’s), and Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP’s) are licensed in accordance with state regulations.
- The Office of the Governor should fill vacant seats on the State Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors in a timely manner.