AL
Alabama House Bill HB397

Alabama 2022 Regular Session

Alabama House Bill HB397

Introduced
2/22/22  

Caption

Private Investigation Regulatory Act, to change the name of the regulatory act to Alabama Private Investigation and Process Server Regulatory Act, licensing and regulation of process servers, Secs. 34-25B-1, 34-25B-2, 34-25B-3, 34-25B-4, 34-25B-7, 34-25B-10, 34-25B-11, 34-25B-12, 34-25B-14, 34-25B-22, 34-25B-24, 34-25B-27 am'd.

Impact

This bill will have significant implications for the operation of private investigation and process serving in Alabama. It seeks to establish clearer standards and procedures for licensing, which supporters believe will lead to improved practices in the industry. By ensuring that all process servers meet certain state-defined criteria, the bill may help to bolster consumer confidence in the services provided by licensed professionals. Moreover, such regulatory reforms could help mitigate issues related to unlicensed individuals operating in these roles.

Summary

House Bill 397, known as the Alabama Private Investigation and Process Server Regulatory Act, aims to update the existing legal framework governing private investigations and process serving in Alabama. The bill proposes to amend several sections of the Alabama Code related to the licensing and regulation of process servers. By modernizing these regulations, the bill intends to enhance the professionalism and accountability of individuals operating in these fields.

Contention

While the bill garners support for bringing much-needed regulation to the private investigation and process serving sectors, some stakeholders may express concerns over the enforceability of these regulations and potential impacts on market competition. There may also be apprehensions about how the licensing requirements could affect existing practices within the industry, particularly for those who have been operating without a formal license. Balancing increased regulation with the need to maintain accessibility for legitimate operators will likely be a point of contention during discussions around HB 397.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AL SB118

Sunset law, Alabama Private Investigation Board continued until October 1, 2026

AL SB124

Alabama Security Regulatory Board, continued until October 1, 2027, without modification, pursuant to the Sunset Law

AL HB283

Data privacy, processing of data regulated, consumer actions related to data authorized

AL HJR337

Recognizing the 250th anniversaries of the United States Army, Navy, and Marine Corps and encouraging commemorative activities throughout the state

AL HR336

Recognizing the 250th anniversaries of the United States Army, Navy, and Marine Corps and encouraging commemorative activities throughout the state

AL SB231

Utilities; privately owned sewer and wastewater systems; systems under jurisdiction of Alabama Public Service Commission, further provided

AL HR173

Squadron Officer Preparatory Class 25A, International Officer School, Maxwell Air Force Base, commended

AL SB224

Office of Occupational and Professional Licensing, created within the Department of Labor; oversight provided to professional or occupational licensing boards.

AL SB163

State Auditor; powers and duties revised; Division of Investigations created

AL HB562

State Auditor; powers and duties revised; Division of Investigations created

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