Action | Develop regulations for a mandatory continuing education requirement for architect, professional engineer, and land surveyor licenses. |
Stage | Proposed |
Comment Period | Ended on 5/2/2008 |
I've read many of the comments to-date, and most don't seem to understand how other states' programs work.
For academics, most states give credit for teaching courses. They will probably never have to take a course.
Depending on the "carry-over" limitations, those who earn advanced degrees in the future could be exempt for years. Those who already have them probably lose out....sorry.
I'm registered in multiple states and have to get 15-hours per year in a couple of them. The only problem I see is when a state like Florida requires 4-hours on the Florida law every two years. Since there is barely any difference between the laws of any two states, this is silly. Fortunately, North Carolina and other states accept the Florida courses for no apparent reason.
One comment addressed having to stay current with changing codes. Red Vector has many courses on the National Electrical Code. I'm guessing they have similar courses for other disciplines.
In the beginning (20+ years ago), we took courses, went to conferences and kept our own records. We were always at risk if an audit determined that your "lunch and learn" in the office was unworthy. Now, if you use Red Vector, PDH Center Online, or similar resources for training, they certify and keep your records.
If you are only registered in Virginia, this is an inconvenience. If you're registered in other states, it's probably no big deal. This doesn't appear to be a revenue generator for the state.....to the contrary. This will cost the state and professionals time and money, but it will probably allow Virginia professionals to get continue to get registration by comity in states with professional development hour requirements.