Position Statement: Use of Qualified Retired Law Enforcement Credentials in the Private Security Industry

The Board of Directors of the International Association of Security and
Investigative Regulators (IASIR) recognizes the valuable experience and
training that retired law enforcement officers bring to the private security
industry. The federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004 (LEOSA),
specifically 18 U.S. Code § 926C, “Carrying of concealed firearms by
qualified retired law enforcement officers,” (also known as H.R.218)
authorizes eligible retired officers who meet the statutory requirements to
carry a concealed firearm. This federal credential may be used for both
personal protection and commercial purposes, including employment within
the private security sector.

However, IASIR emphasizes that this federal authorization does not exempt
credentialed retired law enforcement officers from state or local laws
regulating private security activities. States maintain the authority to set
licensing, training, registration, and operational requirements for
individuals working in the private security profession. Therefore, even with
federal concealed carry credentials, retired law enforcement officers must
fully comply with all applicable state or local regulations governing private
security services, including those relating to firearms qualifications,
licensing, and professional conduct. Retired law enforcement officers
seeking to provide private security services using their federal credentials
should consult their state or local regulatory authority to ensure compliance
with all applicable requirements

IASIR supports consistent enforcement of state and local laws to ensure
that all individuals—regardless of prior law enforcement status—meet the
professional and regulatory standards established for the private security