Audit finds missed minutes and procedural gaps at Private Investigative and Security Board

Auditors presented a performance audit of the Private Investigative and Security Board that covered Jan. 1, 2019, through June 30, 2025. The audit, conducted under Senate Bill No. 2051 (2025), identified five findings: a lack of documented policies and procedures; licensing-process inefficiencies and renewal backlogs; pocket card issuance problems; an impractical renewal timeframe; and potential cost savings if the board used the Attorney General's office for legal services. The audit also reported that board meeting minutes were not prepared for 31 meetings between October 2021 and June 2025, resulting in noncompliance with North Dakota Century Code Section 44-04-21.

State Auditor Joshua C. Gallion presented the audit and said the board acknowledged the findings. Steve Lundin, Vice Chairman of the Private Investigative and Security Board, commented that the board agrees with the findings and will establish documented policies and procedures, address license and renewal backlogs, and consider using the Attorney General's office for legal services. Executive Director John J. Shorey, III informed committee members that the 31 cited meeting minutes have been completed and approved by the board. Board Chairman Michael Wetsch said the board will consider establishing continuing education requirements for licensees with industry input.

The committee accepted the Private Investigative and Security Board report as part of its accepted reports list at the March 24 meeting.