In recent years, legislation for the practice of interior design has gained momentum throughout the country. You may be wondering, “Why is this important?” Similarly to other professions, state Interior Design Legislation allows Interior Design Professionals to distinguish themselves with credentials that indicate to the public that you have been educated in interior design, have passed a licensing exam such as the NCIDQ, and adhere to requirements for annual training in various topics related to the health, safety, and welfare of the public. While there is a vast amount of support from industry-adjacent professionals and partners, legislation is regularly challenged by opponents across the country. To help protect legislation, ASID’s Advocate by Design (AxD) program advocates at all levels of government and assists chapters and coalitions both with protecting existing legislation and propelling new legislation forward.

Since 1995, the Alabama Interior Design Coalition (AIDC) has been working to advocate for, protect, and improve legislation within our state in collaboration with both ASID and IIDA locally and nationally. This takes time, effort, and financial support. As stated on ASID’s website, “Successful advocacy doesn’t happen by accident and requires diligent planning, thoughtful deliberation, long-term strategic vision, and active participation.” Year-round, AIDC serves as an advocate for Registered Interior Designers in Alabama, doing those things and financially supports a lobbyist to monitor legislation and update or assist the coalition when necessary. Your support for and membership with AIDC are paramount in supporting these continued efforts to advocate for the profession of Registered Interior Designers within the state of Alabama.

If you are not already a member and are interested in joining to help support AIDC or if you wish to learn more about AIDC’s efforts, please visit their newly updated website at al-aidc.org. I also encourage you to visit asid.org/advocate-by-design to learn more about the mission of ASID’s AxD program.