Page 115 - 2023 CIDI Notebook

PI Standards - Licensed and Unlicensed

THE STATUS OF PI LICENSING IN COLORADO…
PPIAC supported HB20-1207
Concerning the Continuation of the Regulation of Private Investigators
This bill continued the current program unchanged, scheduled to sunset
08/31/2020. This passed the state legislature with an overall 75% affirmative
votes in committees and the floor. It was sent to the governor, who vetoed on
07/03/2020 - after the legislative session ended 40+ days early.
WHY?
"Too often it is used to protect existing professionals within an occupation
against competition from newcomers entering that occupation." and "We are
open to working with the General Assembly to take reasonable steps to address
these concerns while stopping short of full licensure.“
It is strongly recommended you now obtain licensing in another state.
This will demonstrate a clear background and professionalism.
This may protect your access to information restricted to licensed Pis.
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THE STATUS OF PI LICENSING IN COLORADO…
What is now?
Initially it was thought licensing in Colorado ended 08/31/2020 with the sunset.
>> Not true.
Colorado has a statute which extends sunset programs for a one year “wind up”
period to close the program.
During this time the licensure program is in effect, and every requirement applies.
• You must be licensed, which means:
• You must carry a bond;
• You must have a clear background;
• You must pass the online jurisprudence exam.
• All regulation and enforcement remains until 08/31/2021
It is unknown what the legislature may or may not do in this session.
This presentation covers Standards you should develop, licensed or not.

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Colorado PI Licensing Laws
(until 08/31/2020)

 The (now vetoed) law was intentionally limited to title
protection and consumer protection, with no barrier to
entry into the profession due to experience.
 The applicant must submit a fingerprint card for a
Colorado and FBI background check;
 The law is intended for serious misdemeanors (i.e.
Assault, DV, etc.) and felonies to be prohibited to being
licensed.
 The applicant must pass a jurisprudence exam (online)
of the PI statute, DORA rules, and applicable state
statutes (i.e. harassment, privacy).

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