NC H566

Expands the definition of "private protective services" to include electronic countermeasures (devices that detect or block surveillance equipment) and close personal protection services for executives, officials, and high-risk individuals.

Grants the Private Protective Services Board additional powers including authority to issue cease and desist letters for unlicensed activity, acquire real property, establish firearms standards, and adopt a code of professional conduct.

Extends the timeline for business entities to obtain a substitute qualifying agent from 30 to 90 days (with possible 30-day extension) and requires late fees for failures to comply; applicants have 90 days to pay initial license fees and make required fund contributions.

Establishes firearm training exemptions for certain individuals including North Carolina law enforcement academy graduates, retired or separated law enforcement officers, honorably discharged military personnel with applicable training, and nuclear power plant security personnel.

Increases civil penalties from $2,000 to $2,000 per violation and authorizes the Board to recover costs and attorneys' fees; clarifies the Secretary of Public Safety's enforcement authority over unlicensed individuals and those with lapsed or surrendered licenses.