CS for SB 658 Summary

• Creates comprehensive licensing and regulation of locksmith services businesses by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, requiring biennial licenses with fees up to $800-$1,600 depending on number of employees

• Mandates fingerprinting and background screening for criminal records of owners, officers, employees, and locksmiths, disqualifying those convicted of theft, burglary, fraud, or related crimes within 10 years (with limited exemption options for felonies over 3 years old)

• Requires locksmiths to complete 16 hours of training including industry ethics, Americans with Disabilities Act, Florida Building Code, and Fire Prevention Code; automotive-only locksmiths need only 8 hours; apprentices must be supervised and complete 16 hours of training

• Establishes $100,000 minimum liability insurance requirement, mandatory photo identification cards for all locksmiths/apprentices, display of licenses in all advertising and business documents, and acceptance of at least two payment methods (cash, check, or credit card)

• Preempts local regulation of locksmith services effective July 1, 2011; creates Florida Locksmith Services Advisory Council with nine members (six industry, one contractor, one security/law enforcement expert, one consumer); violations are unfair/deceptive trade practices subject to civil penalties up to $10,000 and potential criminal penalties