Firearms: Private Patrol Operators: registration and assignment.

Existing law generally regulates the ownership and transfer of firearms, but does not authorize business entities to own or register firearms. This bill would establish procedures allowing Private Patrol Operators to own firearms and to assign those firearms to employees of the Private Patrol Operator who are licensed security guards. The bill would state findings and declarations of the Legislature, and the intent of the Legislature in connection with these procedures. The bill would direct the Department of Justice to modify and create forms, and charge reasonable fees for the filing and processing of those forms and for enforcement of these provisions. The bill would require security guards, within 48 hours of the Private Patrol Operator's request, for any reason, and within 48 hours of separation of employment or revocation of the security guard's firearm qualification card, to return the firearm to the Private Patrol Operator. Failure to comply with the 48-hour return requirement would be a misdemeanor. By creating a new crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The bill would make other conforming changes. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.