Senate Bill 424 Summary

• Adds "close personal protection" and "digital forensics examination" as defined private protective services professions regulated by the Private Protective Services Board.

• Extends the deadline for business entities to obtain a substitute qualifying agent from 30 days to 90 days when the original qualifying agent ceases service, with Board discretion to extend an additional 30 days upon petition and hearing.

• Increases application and late fee limits, including up to $100 late fee for businesses failing to obtain substitute qualifying agents or applicants failing to pay initial license fees within required timeframes.

• Creates exemptions from firearms training requirements for retired law enforcement officers, military personnel with relevant occupational specialties, and nuclear power plant security employees meeting specified criteria.

• Modifies liability insurance requirements to include "firearm or other deadly weapon" language and clarifies that trainees under licensee supervision must obtain insurance unless the licensee provides coverage.

• Allows out-of-state armed security guards to work during declared disasters or states of emergency if they meet North Carolina training and qualification requirements for a maximum 12-month period.