Terror Alerts - New York Security Licensing Upgraded

August 20th, 2007

NEW YORK-- In the fall of 2007, a newly amended licensing law will take effect in New York State that aims to reduce the state's widespread unlicensed activity.  Recent passage of the licensing bill capped a 15 year long effort by the New York Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (NYBFAA) to prosecute individuals and Companies who install, service or maintain security of fire alarm systems without a license.  The bill amends a 1992 law that instituted alarm licensing but failed to instruct which government agency would be responsible for enforcement and administrating fines.  “The original law had absolutely no teeth at all” NYBFAA Vice President Ron Petraca.  “Enforcing it became a finger pointing game between the Department of State and the Attorney General.  They even tried to pawn it off on the local district attorneys.”  Unlicensed security installers can now be called before an administrative judge who can impose fines beginning at $1,000 for the first offense to $10,000 for a fourth and subsequent violation.

Security Sales & Integration Magazine