DE HB212

Creates the Auctioneer Licensing Commission with 5 members (at least 3 licensed auctioneers, at least 1 non-industry consumer) to license and regulate auctioneers and auction firms in Delaware.

Requires individual auctioneers to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, complete 80 hours of prescribed coursework, call for bids at 15+ auctions over 2 years under supervision, and pass a written examination; licenses valid for 2 years with 12 hours of continuing education required for renewal.

Requires auction firms to obtain licenses and designate at least one person with authority to transact business; designated persons must pass written examination unless already licensed as an auctioneer.

Establishes a Recovery Fund supported by license fee assessments ($200-$300 minimum per licensee) to compensate consumers for losses up to $5,000 per claim or $50,000 lifetime per auctioneer/firm resulting from violations of the act.

Prohibits unlicensed auctioneering and auction firm operation as a Class B misdemeanor; provides penalties of fines up to $10,000, license suspension, probation, or revocation for violations including fraud, misrepresentation, shilling, and failure to maintain records.