SB236 Summary

• Professional bondsmen and recovery agents commencing business after February 1, 2015, must complete a 20-hour instructional course and pass an examination administered by the Department of Insurance; those already in business are exempted from the initial course requirement.

• All professional bondsmen and recovery agents making annual filings after June 1, 2014, must complete 12 hours of continuing education annually conducted by the Alabama Bail Agents Association or an approved provider.

• Certificates of examination and continuing education issued by the Department of Insurance must be filed with the presiding circuit judge as part of professional surety and bail company authorization requirements.

• The 20-hour course cost is capped at $500, continuing education at $75 per hour, examination fee at $125, and annual continuing education certificate fee at $50.

• The bill becomes effective June 1, 2014.