Unveiling Critical Changes: Proposed Amendments by California BSIS and Their Impact on Hospitality, Retail, and Hotel Industries

Introduction:

In July 2023, the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services made a significant announcement to individuals subscribed to their email updates. It's important to note that this email list does not encompass industry associations representing numerous security guards employed in various establishments such as bars, clubs, music venues, lounges, retail stores, or hotels. These dedicated professionals, integral to the hospitality, retail, and hotel sectors, are among those who may be impacted by the potential language modifications proposed by BSIS. Stay informed about how these changes could affect you and your industry.

The email included a comprehensive document presenting proposed language changes by BSIS across various legal sections of existing law. I've emphasized in YELLOW the alterations of utmost significance to the hospitality, retail, and hotel industry. Additionally, the BLUE highlights pinpoint the most critical aspects, particularly those carrying potential risks. While some changes demonstrate careful consideration and promise benefits to both the public and affected industries, others appear insufficiently evaluated and pose risks. Notably, in a crucial area, the suggested language changes could lead to a perilous situation for the general public, the involved guards, and employers. Stay informed about the potential impacts of these proposed modifications.

Background:

The current law, implemented in January 2011, mandates a minimum of 16 hours of training for in-house security personnel, legally known as Proprietary Private Security Officers (PPSO). This training encompasses powers to arrest, weapons of mass destruction, and industry-specific topics tailored to the respective sector. 

Notably; the speaker-(Rob Bio), who was the chairperson of the committee instrumental in creating the curriculum and who was issued state license number P-0001, emphasizes the extensive evaluation and meticulous planning that went into the existing framework.

Proposed BSIS Changes Overview:

1. Training Duration Increase: BSIS seeks to elevate the PPSO Guard training from 16 hours to a substantial 40 hours.

2. Powers to Arrest Training Extension: The proposed amendment aims to double the duration of Powers to Arrest training from 4 hours to 8 hours.

3. In-Person Training Mandate: BSIS proposes that 4 out of the 8 hours of Powers to Arrest training must be conducted in-person, eliminating online or distance learning options.

4. Introduction of "Restraint" Training: A new requirement calls for a minimum of 3 hours of "Restraint" training for PPSO Guards.

Analysis:

The proposed changes by BSIS have widespread negative implications for various sectors, including hospitality, hotels, resorts, live music, retail, and more. Notably, the inclusion of "Restraint training" in the last bullet point raises significant concerns for the safety of both employees and the citizens these guards are tasked with protecting. It's astonishing that the administration at BSIS did not readily identify the potential dangers associated with this aspect. Stay aware of the potential risks these changes pose to employee and citizen safety.

Call to Action:

As any law enforcement officer will attest, restraint training is a perishable skill, meaning that without regular use, the acquired skills can fade. It's crucial for regulatory bodies like BSIS, functioning as a law enforcement agency, to be aware of this reality.

Initiate discussions with your superiors, company attorney, local association, state association, and even engage with your state legislature. The latter may find it particularly noteworthy that BSIS is attempting to modify a law without utilizing the standard, established mechanisms for such changes. Stay informed and contribute to the dialogue surrounding these proposed alterations.