Utah became the first state to pass interior design legislation in 2026 when Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed Senate Bill 286, on March 19. The bill updates the scope of practice for qualified interior designers in the state to align with modernized legislation across the country. 

Sponsored by Senator Luz Escamilla, SB 286 amends Utah’s Certification of Commercial Interior Design Act, established in 2016, by removing occupancy group limitations, wall height limitations, among other technical changes and definitions. The law goes into effect on May 6, 2026.

ASID Intermountain Chapter, IIDA Intermountain Chapter, and the Consortium for Interior Design worked closely with lobbyist Amy Coombs, Prestige Government Relations and Consulting Group to swiftly move this bill through the Utah legislature. SB 286 reinforces the essential role that certified interior designers have in protecting the health, safety, and welfare of occupants in public spaces, while expanding their ability to practice in a way that reflects current industry standards.