NSPE and the Alabama Society of Professional Engineers have joined forces to oppose a proposed regulatory change that would eliminate current qualifications-based selection requirements in the state. In a joint letter to the Alabama Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, NSPE President Kodi Jean Verhalen, P.E., Esq., F.NSPE and ASPE President Paul McCain, P.E., urged the board to retain its current QBS requirements: “The administrative regulations proposed for repeal are important components of QBS…. Unfortunately, the recommended amendment is inconsistent with QBS and creates a procurement system in which price alone is given priority over the competence and qualifications of the provider in making procurement requirements. NSPE believes QBS is the best method for procuring architectural and engineering services.” QBS protects the public welfare, benefits the taxpayer, levels the playing field for small firms and promotes technical innovation. NSPE and ASPE will continue to actively oppose this effort and provide updates as they become available.
