Relating to private investigative agencies and security agents, and providing penalties

This bill relates to private investigative agencies and security agents. Current law provides that a person who makes a false statement in an application for a license as a private investigative agency or security agent filed with the commissioner of public safety, who falsely states, represents, or fails to disclose that the person has been or is a private investigator, private security agent, or bail enforcement agent, or who falsely advertises that the person is a licensed private investigator, private security agent, or bail enforcement agent, is guilty of a fraudulent practice. 8(22).11(1)(b) (fraudulent practice in the third degree), which is an aggravated misdemeanor. An aggravated misdemeanor is punishable by confinement for no more than two years and a fine of at least $855 but not more than $8,540. The bill provides that a person who is subject to the licensing requirements of Code chapter 80A and who engages in a private investigation or private security business without possessing a current valid license is guilty of a class “D” felony. A class “D” felony is punishable by confinement for no more than five years and a fine of at least $1,025 but not more than $10,245. The bill provides that the commissioner of the department of public safety shall make available on the department’s internet site a list of the names of all licensees, including the names of owners, corporate officers, and directors.