New registration framework gives commercial interior designers greater independence and economic opportunity
(BOSTON—6/4/2026) New opportunities to grow the commercial interior design industry in Massachusetts would be unlocked through legislation passed by the Senate today.
The Senate voted to advance a bill to create optional state licensure for commercial interior designers, a step that would empower smaller designers to bid individually for certain projects rather than having to contract with a larger firm.
“Building off of the proposal that passed the Senate last session, this bill continues the critical work underway in Massachusetts to address wage disparity by providing a system of licensure that levels the playing field for commercial interior design professionals,” said Senator Cindy F. Friedman (D-Arlington). “These professionals deserve to be recognized for the work they do through professional licensing, should they choose to do so. This bill is especially important for our small business owners to open up a wider market of projects that match their existing skillset. I hope to see the House of Representatives move this proposal forward so we can finally get it to the Governor’s desk this session.”
The legislation—S.3107, An Act relative to advancing the profession of commercial interior design—would ensure flexibility for designers by making the new licensure process optional.
Currently, smaller interior design operations have to contract with larger firms that have architectural licenses in order to bid on certain projects.
Full details of the legislation are available in a fact sheet in the Senate’s press room.
The Senate Committee on Ways and Means advanced the bill to the full Senate with a 16-0 vote on June 1, 2026. A previous version was vetted and advanced by the Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.
The Senate passed the bill and sent it to the House of Representatives for further review.
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