DelawareHB 81153rd General Assembly (2024–2026)HouseWALLET

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 24 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS.

Sponsored By: Ronald E. Gray (Republican)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 3 mixed.

Tougher exam rules and penalties

During exams, the chief proctor can collect test materials and personal items, remove you from the site, and call law enforcement. After review, the Council can void your score and bar you from retaking the exam for 2 years or longer. It can also require ethics training, revoke any license or certificate tied to the exam, and report actions to other places.

Stronger crackdowns on unlicensed engineering

It is illegal to use someone else’s license, certificate, permit, or seal, give forged proof, impersonate a holder, or use expired or revoked papers. The Council may issue a written cease‑and‑desist order that lists the supported allegations and sets a deadline to comply. You can request a hearing in writing before the deadline. If you do not contest it, the order becomes final, and the Council can ask a court to enforce it.

Clear discipline process and 90-day fines

Investigators must keep case facts confidential and, if a complaint lacks support, send a written dismissal recommendation to the Council. The Council’s review is limited to that record and may reject only if it is contrary to law, lacks substantial evidence, or is arbitrary or capricious. The Council publishes penalty guidelines with minimum and maximum sanctions and uses them when deciding discipline. Fines must be paid within 90 days; money goes to the State’s General Fund after the Council deducts case costs. People who report or testify get whistleblower protections, and the Council may reissue a license, permit, or authorization by majority vote on petition.

Easier engineer licenses with stricter proof

If you hold a current professional engineer license from another U.S. state, DC, a territory, Canada, or a Council‑approved country, you can get a Delaware license without another exam. You must apply and pay the required fee. International Professional Engineer (IntPE) registrants can also get licensed if in good standing and they show at least 5 years of continuous, verifiable experience after their first license. They must apply and pay the fee. Every applicant must submit at least 5 references, with at least 3 from licensed professional engineers or IntPE registrants. All applicants, permittees, and firms with certificates must follow the Code of Ethics.

Public works must use licensed engineers

State and local agencies may not seek or award public‑works jobs that involve engineering unless the named engineer or firm is authorized when the proposal is submitted. Engineering plans must be prepared by a licensee or permittee, and construction must be under their responsible charge or direct supervision. Contracts that violate these rules are null and void.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Ronald E. Gray
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Stephanie L. Hansen
Democratic • Senate
Debra Heffernan
Democratic • House
Brian Pettyjohn
Republican • Senate
David L. Wilson
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 54 • No: 0

Senate vote • 6/24/2025

Passed (SM required)

Yes: 21 • No: 0

House vote • 5/8/2025