HB426 Alabama 2017 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Isaac Whorton

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2017

Title

Electronic Security Board of Licensure, licensure of alarm installers, locksmiths, and similar electronic security systems, definition, penalties, operation and meetings of the board, Secs. 34-1A-1 to 34-1A-7, inclusive, am'd.

Summary

HB426 would create the Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure, expand licensing to alarm installers and locksmiths, and set rules and penalties for regulating electronic security systems.

What This Bill Does

The bill establishes a new state board to license and regulate alarm system installers and locksmiths, and it defines key terms used in electronic security. It sets licensure rules, including qualifications, examinations, background checks, license duration (two years, with possible staggered renewals), and license display requirements; it also outlines classifications for licensees and fee structures. It equips the board with enforcement tools like investigations, disciplinary actions, cease-and-desist orders, injunctions, and monetary penalties (up to $1,000 per violation), and it creates certain exemptions from licensure. The bill also imposes confidentiality for alarm system records and details how the board operates, including meetings and can use video conferencing.

Who It Affects

• Alarm system installers and locksmiths in Alabama, who would need to be licensed, meet competency standards, pass background checks, and follow board regulations.
• Consumers and the general public, who would have access to board oversight, consumer information, and the right to file complaints; licensees would must display licenses and contact information.

Key Provisions

• Creation of the Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure, with specified categories and terms for members (alarm industry rep, consultant engineer, sheriff representative, locksmith, and consumer representative).
• Definition updates and additions for terms such as alarm system, locksmith, monitoring station, electronic access control system, CCTV, and related classifications.
• Licensing authority and process: board can license and regulate alarm system installers and locksmiths, set qualifications, conduct or approve exams, require background checks (including fingerprints), issue licenses (two-year terms, with possible staggered renewals), and prohibit license transfer.
• Regulatory requirements for licensees: display licenses at business, disclose board contact information, publish consumer information, require photo ID on the person providing licensed services, and mandate licensee advertising to include license numbers.
• Enforcement and penalties: board can suspend/revoke licenses, impose sanctions, levy monetary penalties (up to $1,000 per violation), seek injunctive relief, and pursue court costs and attorney fees; unlicensed activity can result in criminal penalties.
• Exemptions from licensure: specific activities and entities are not subject to the licensing provisions, such as certain owners, contractors under certain supervision, over-the-counter sales, and specified professionals under different circumstances.
• Board operations and ethics: rules of proceedings, quorum requirements, annual officer elections, allowance of video conferencing for meetings, and ethics canons; board can contract, employ staff, and coordinate with law enforcement.
• Confidentiality of alarm records: information about alarm locations and occupants is kept confidential and disclosed only as required by law or to the board.

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