California Assembly Bill AB484

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/8/21
• Refer: 2/18/21
• Report Pass: 4/5/21
• Refer: 4/6/21
• Report Pass: 4/14/21
• Refer: 4/14/21
• Report Pass: 4/28/21
• Engrossed: 5/6/21
• Refer: 5/6/21
• Refer: 5/19/21
• Report Pass: 6/21/21
• Refer: 6/21/21
• Enrolled: 8/31/21
• Chaptered: 9/28/21
• Passed: 9/28/21

Caption

Alarm company operators: advertisements.

Impact

The passage of AB 484 is expected to streamline the advertising process for alarm company operators. By allowing advertisements to link directly to a website where customers can find comprehensive licensing information, the bill harmonizes modern advertising practices with regulatory requirements. This not only enhances visibility for businesses but also enables consumers to easily verify the legitimacy of the operators they are considering. The increased accessibility to licensing information aims to improve consumer protection within the industry.

Summary

Assembly Bill 484, introduced by Medina, amends Section 7599.44 of the Business and Professions Code regarding alarm company operators. The bill allows these operators, who are regulated by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services, to use their radio, television, and billboard advertisements to direct potential customers to their online landing pages for required licensing information. This change aims to provide greater flexibility in how alarm operators can advertise their services while still ensuring that necessary licensure details are accessible to consumers.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding AB 484 has been supportive within the legislative discussions. The general consensus among proponents is that this bill modernizes regulations to keep pace with evolving advertising methods, particularly in the digital age. Stakeholders recognize the advantages of simplifying access to important business information for consumers and fostering a more competitive marketplace for alarm services.

Contention

While there has been broad support for AB 484, potential points of contention revolve around the enforcement of advertising standards and consumer understanding of the information provided. Critics may argue about the implications of directing consumers online instead of providing the information directly in advertisements. Concerns about ensuring clarity and preventing misleading advertisements could arise, necessitating further discussions on consumer education and protection measures.