Can houses of worship hire in-house security?
Houses of worship are indeed permitted to establish their own in-house security forces to safeguard against potential threats. However, navigating the legal landscape to ensure compliance with state regulations is essential for these entities. Specifically, adherence to various legal mandates is required to lawfully employ a security team internally. For smaller institutions, the logistical and financial implications may render outsourcing to a professional security firm a more viable option. Nonetheless, understanding the procedural steps to comply with California's legal framework is crucial.
The foundational legal directives governing security operations within California are encapsulated within the Business and Professions Codes, notably BPC 7583.12, which pertains to security work, and BPC 7574, which outlines the "Proprietary Security Services Act." These statutes are instrumental in setting the legal groundwork for security operations.
The Department of Consumer Affairs plays a pivotal role in enforcing these regulations, utilizing the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) as the regulatory body responsible for licensing, overseeing training, and ensuring compliance within the security services sector. This comprehensive regulatory framework underscores the importance of thorough understanding and adherence to these laws for houses of worship considering the establishment of in-house security solutions.
It's imperative for leaders of such institutions to grasp the broader regulatory environment governing in-house security, including the origins of these regulations and the entities charged with their enforcement. This knowledge will equip decision-makers with the necessary insights to make informed choices regarding the implementation of security measures within their houses of worship.
The Proprietary Private Security Services Act mandates comprehensive accountability on the part of employers regarding their security operations. Within this framework, proprietary security denotes an arrangement where the security force is operated and managed internally, with team members being direct employees of the organization. This encompasses all facets of the security process, including the recruitment, training, certification, equipping of personnel, and the establishment of operational policies and daily oversight.
A notable benefit of adopting a proprietary security model is the enhanced flexibility and customization it affords. Employers have the autonomy to design security protocols that precisely align with their organizational needs and values. Particularly for houses of worship, this means the ability to select security personnel who not only meet professional standards but also embody the values of the institution, fostering positive interactions within the community.
Moreover, proprietary security offers distinct advantages in policy formation and training. It grants the employer the authority to develop specific security policies and training regimes tailored to their unique requirements. Whether it involves specialized training programs or particular enforcement techniques, the control lies entirely with the employing entity, ensuring that security measures are both effective and congruent with the organization's ethos.
When a house of worship opts to internalize its security operations, it is imperative to adhere to the stipulations set forth in BPC 7574. This legislation delineates that a proprietary security officer must operate unarmed. Should the institution determine the necessity for armed security personnel, it becomes incumbent upon them to secure an Exposed Firearms Permit through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). The complexity of compliance escalates notably as the house of worship would then be obligated to attain licensure as a Private Patrol Operator (PPO), a status governed and regulated by BSIS. This licensure process demands successful passage of an examination and the engagement of a Qualified Manager who is also required to pass an examination and exhibit competency in managing a security workforce.
To uphold a PPO license, the organization must maintain a general liability insurance coverage of no less than $1 million, fulfill workers' compensation insurance requirements, and ensure enrollment of its staff in California’s CalSavers Retirement Program. It becomes evident that the transition to in-house security personnel entails substantial financial commitments, juxtaposed against the marginal benefits that such an arrangement might offer.