HB 2340

Abstract

Amends the Structural Engineering Practice Act of 1989. Replaces "Director" with "Secretary". Replaces "Department of Professional Regulation" with "Department of Financial and Professional Regulation". Provides that whenever the Secretary is not satisfied that substantial justice has been done in an examination, the Secretary may order a reexamination by the same or other examiners. In a provision concerning the Board, changes total number of members to 7 (now, 6), requires that 6 members be Illinois licensed structural engineers (now, 5), limits term of service to 10 years in a lifetime (now, 14 consecutive years), and provides that members may receive compensation as determined by the Secretary. Provides that a structural engineer applicant must pass an examination authorized by the Department as determined by rule to receive a license as a structural engineer (now, examination is conducted by the Department). Provides that the Department may take disciplinary action against any person that commits certain tax violations. Provides that the Department shall deny a license or renewal to a person that has defaulted on an education loan or scholarship provided or guaranteed by the State. Provides that the Department or Board, upon a showing of possible violation of the Act, may order a licensee or applicant to submit to a mental or physical examination, or both, at the expense of the Department. Provides that refusal by the licensee or applicant to submit to the examination when directed, without reasonable cause as defined by rule, shall be grounds for the immediate suspension of the license or denial of the application. Provides that any licensee suspended by the Department as a result of such mental or physical examination shall be entitled to a hearing within 15 days after the suspension. Provides that the Department and Board shall have the authority to review the licensee's record of treatment and counseling regarding the relevant impairment or impairments to the maximum extent permitted by applicable federal statutes and regulations safeguarding the confidentiality of medical records. Defines "address of record". Makes other changes. Effective immediately.