As a licensed professional for over 20 years, I have continued to learn without a regulatory agency standing over me with threats of loss of license.  Apparently the government has taken the position that I am too ignorant to keep up with the demands of my profession, and is attempting to join in the AIA's income producing boondoggle pushing continuing education courses.  My past and present association with licensed professionals has shown a group willing to learn about new technologies, materials, and methods without being forced to by legislation.  So, NO, this is not a change for the better.

Also, please inform those who are tasked with writing the legislation that the rules of grammar still apply:  "18VAC10-20-687. Exemptions and Waivers......However, such exemptions, waivers, or reductions shall not relieve the individual (singular) of their (plural) obligation to comply...."  This can easily be rectified by changing "the individual" to "individuals".  My fifth grade teacher would have been appalled by this grammatical faux pas.