AL SB350

Prohibits persons from acting as professional bail agents, soliciting bail agents, bail enforcement agents, or professional bondsmen unless qualified and licensed by the Department of Insurance.

Requires applicants to provide personal information, background verification including felony record check, proof of no legal license, and statements regarding employment status and bail bond business engagement.

Mandates professional bondsmen and recovery agents commencing business on or after February 1, 2016, to complete a 12-hour instructional course and pass an examination approved by the Department of Insurance.

Requires all professional bondsmen and recovery agents to complete 8 hours of continuing education annually beginning January 1, 2016, with continuing education providers capped at charging $500 per year.

Disqualifies persons under age 21, those with felony convictions or crimes involving moral turpitude, law enforcement officers, attorneys, and jail or corrections facility employees from obtaining licenses.