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Bill

HB 1347

Security Guards and Security Guard Employers - Registration, Certification, and Regulation

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Adams

Maryland establishes mandatory state registration, certification, and training requirements for security guards and employers to ensure industry oversight and public safety standards.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 702
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1347

Legislative bill overview

HB 1347 establishes a comprehensive registration and certification system for security guards and their employers in Maryland. The bill creates state-level regulatory requirements including background checks, training standards, and licensing procedures that security guard companies and individual guards must meet to operate legally in the state.

Why is this important

Security guards perform critical protective functions for businesses, institutions, and the public, yet have historically operated with minimal state oversight. This regulation aims to ensure qualified, vetted personnel work in security roles while establishing consistent standards across the industry, potentially reducing fraud, misconduct, and public safety risks associated with unregulated security services.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance costs: New registration and certification requirements may increase operational expenses for small security firms and could reduce market competition or raise prices for consumers
  • Training and certification standards: Disagreement over what qualifications are necessary versus excessive—some argue robust training improves safety while critics contend overly stringent requirements limit workforce entry
  • Implementation timeline: Concerns about whether existing security personnel and companies have adequate time and resources to comply with new regulations before enforcement begins

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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