It's not just California. Several weeks ago, we were informed by someone from our church's liability insurance company that we may be subject to Wisconsin's Statue 440.26 regarding licensing for Private Security Personnel. When I inquired to the WI Dept of Safety & Prof Services if the statute applies to volunteers at churches, I was als…
It's not just California. Several weeks ago, we were informed by someone from our church's liability insurance company that we may be subject to Wisconsin's Statue 440.26 regarding licensing for Private Security Personnel. When I inquired to the WI Dept of Safety & Prof Services if the statute applies to volunteers at churches, I was also quoted our statute:
"Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute section 440.26(1)(a)2., no person may act as a private security person unless they have been issued a permit by the Department. It does not appear that your situation falls within the exemptions Wis. Stat. s. 440.26(5). Accordingly, we recommend licensure."
Their definition of a private security person includes "...any person who stands watch for security purposes", not just uniformed or LE. My CCW attorney (Right To Bear! :) ) reviewed it and could not dismiss it outright either. So I am still in the throes of working with an attorney, and my state representative and senator to get clarification. Most of our churches use a "Safety Team" variation and take an "enhanced greeter" position, as you've mentioned many times. It is so frustrating when our churches simply want to be able to protect their congregations while being compliant with the law.
I will post back when I get a definitive answer, if that ever happens!
It's not just California. Several weeks ago, we were informed by someone from our church's liability insurance company that we may be subject to Wisconsin's Statue 440.26 regarding licensing for Private Security Personnel. When I inquired to the WI Dept of Safety & Prof Services if the statute applies to volunteers at churches, I was also quoted our statute:
"Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute section 440.26(1)(a)2., no person may act as a private security person unless they have been issued a permit by the Department. It does not appear that your situation falls within the exemptions Wis. Stat. s. 440.26(5). Accordingly, we recommend licensure."
Their definition of a private security person includes "...any person who stands watch for security purposes", not just uniformed or LE. My CCW attorney (Right To Bear! :) ) reviewed it and could not dismiss it outright either. So I am still in the throes of working with an attorney, and my state representative and senator to get clarification. Most of our churches use a "Safety Team" variation and take an "enhanced greeter" position, as you've mentioned many times. It is so frustrating when our churches simply want to be able to protect their congregations while being compliant with the law.
I will post back when I get a definitive answer, if that ever happens!