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House panel postpones measure to regulate private security firms
Summary
The House Finance Committee voted to postpone House Bill 12‑62, which would have created statewide minimum standards and a new regulatory board for private security companies, citing cost concerns; the measure was laid over indefinitely at the sponsor's request.
The House Finance Committee postponed House Bill 12‑62 indefinitely on a voice and roll‑call vote after the bill’s sponsor said the measure would create recurring costs the state cannot currently afford.
Sponsor Representative Mabry told the committee HB 12‑62 would establish baseline requirements for the private security industry — including background checks and training similar to requirements other states impose — and create a Type 1 regulatory board to oversee compliance. Mabry said the policy is sound but that the start‑up and ongoing costs require the bill to be delayed until funding is available.
Committee discussion was brief. Vice Chair moved to postpone the bill indefinitely and a roll call followed. The committee recorded that HB 12‑62 is postponed indefinitely.
The sponsor and staff agreed the issue remains on the legislature’s radar: supporters argued the patchwork of municipal rules creates public‑safety gaps, while opponents and some members expressed concern about adding a new regulatory program when the state budget is constrained.
The bill will not advance from this committee this session. Advocates for statewide standards can pursue future legislation or funding mechanisms, but no formal action was taken beyond the postponement vote.
Ending: For now the legislature has left the issue for a later date; sponsors said they intend to revisit the policy once funding looks attainable.
