SB-0161 Summary

• Amends the Occupational Code to create a new regulatory framework for security guard agencies and security guards under Article 14A, replacing prior regulation under the private security business and security alarm act.

• Requires security guard agency licenses with qualifications including being at least 21 years old, high school diploma or GED, good moral character, no felony convictions, and no disqualifying misdemeanors within the past 5 years (dishonesty, fraud, controlled substances, assault, and criminal sexual conduct).

• Mandates $400,000 minimum liability insurance coverage, criminal history checks (ICHAT) for all employees before hire, specific uniform requirements with company identification patches, and prohibited use of law enforcement-style insignia or designations implying government affiliation.

• Establishes training requirements including 16 hours initial on-the-job training, 16 hours classroom training within 90 days, manufacturer-certified training for weapons/restraint devices, and 4 hours biennial continuing education.

• Takes effect 90 days after enactment only if Senate Bills 162, 163, and 164 are also enacted; grandfather clause allows existing licenses under prior law to remain valid for their original term.