HB509 Alabama 2016 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Isaac Whorton

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2016

Title

Electronic Security Board of Licensure, locksmiths, definition for licensure, exemptions, including licensee authorized to install electronic access control systems, Sec. 34-1A-1 am'd.

Summary

HB509 redefines locksmith and adds exemptions, clarifying that licensed electronic access control system installers are not considered locksmiths.

What This Bill Does

The bill amends the locksmith definition in Section 34-1A-1 to list the services a locksmith handles and to include rules against bypassing locking mechanisms. It creates carve-outs so that small locksmiths earning under $500 a year and not advertising, government personnel, and those already licensed to install or service electronic access control systems (if the locks have electronic access control) are not treated as locksmiths. It also explicitly says that a person or business licensed by the board to install or service electronic access control systems is not a locksmith for the purposes of the locksmith definition.

Who It Affects

• Locksmiths and locksmith businesses: their scope of work and how they are classified may change, with some small operators potentially exempt and some operations redefined.
• Licensed electronic access control system installers and service providers: they would be excluded from the locksmith definition and remain regulated under the Electronic Security Board.

Key Provisions

• Defines locksmith with a detailed list of services including installation, service, repair, rekeying, and other lock-related work for vehicles and buildings, and prohibits bypassing methods.
• Adds exclusions to the locksmith definition: (a) individuals earning ≤$500 annually from locksmith services and not advertising; (b) those who do not advertise; (c) individuals or entities currently licensed to install or service electronic access control systems if any serviced/installed lock has electronic access control capabilities; (d) government or emergency personnel performing official duties.
• Specifies that the term locksmith does not include a person or business entity licensed by the board to install or service electronic access control systems.
• Reaffirms related terms in the chapter, such as alarm monitoring company, alarm system, and electronic access control system, to clarify the scope of electronic security licensure.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Electronic Security Board of Licensure