SB249 Summary

• Professional bondsmen must complete a 12-hour instructional course and pass an examination developed by a statewide bail bond association before soliciting or executing appearance bonds.

• Professional bondsmen must complete 8 hours of continuing education annually and submit proof to court clerks, magistrate judges, sheriffs, or chiefs of police by January 31 of each year.

• Organizations or associations may apply to the Commissioner of Insurance for certification to conduct education programs, and may levy member assessments or dues to finance courses, with up to 15% remitted to the state.

• Maximum fees are capped at $500 for the initial 12-hour course and examination, and $500 for the annual 8-hour continuing education course.

• Professional bondsmen who fail to comply with certification and continuing education requirements shall be suspended from acting as a bondsman until proof of compliance is provided to the appropriate judicial officer or official.