Rep. Smith files bill in North Carolina House to update alarm and security licensing laws

A new bill filed by State Rep. Carson Smith in the North Carolina House seeks to update licensing, training, and enforcement standards for alarm and security service providers, according to the North Carolina State House.

The bill, filed as HB 897 on April 10 during the 2025 regular session, was formally listed with the short title: ‘DPS Agency Changes.-AB’

The following is our breakdown, based on the actual bill text, and may include interpretation to clarify its provisions.

In essence, the bill aims to modernize the Alarm Systems Licensing Act and update laws related to the Private Protective Services Board in North Carolina. It mandates licensing for firms engaging in alarm or security systems, stipulates requirements for qualifying agents, and establishes criteria for criminal background checks and registration for employees involved in security services. It increases fees for various licenses and renewals and sets new minimum liability insurance coverage. The bill also outlines conditions for out-of-state alarm monitoring companies to operate without registration and sets exemptions for specific security installations. Additionally, it establishes new training and registration requirements for security guards and private investigators, including armed personnel, and provides for civil penalties and enforcement measures for violations. The act comes into effect on Oct. 1, 2025.

Smith proposed another 31 bills during the 2025 regular session.

Bills in North Carolina follow a multi-step process before becoming law. A lawmaker starts by filing a bill, which is assigned to a committee for review. The bill must be read three times in each chamber. If one chamber changes the bill after the other passes it, both must agree on the final version. Once both chambers approve the same bill, it goes to the governor, who has 10 days (or 30 if the legislature is not in session) to sign, veto, or let it become law without a signature.

You can read more about the bills and other measures here.

Smith, a Republican, was elected to the North Carolina State House in 2019 to represent the state’s 16th House district, replacing previous state representative Bob Muller.