Governor Newsom Swiftly Signs Senator Richardson’s Security Training Bill into Law

SACRAMENTO, California – July 31, 2025 – Governor Gavin Newsom has signed into law Senate Bill 652, authored by State Senator Laura Richardson (D–South Bay), marking a significant step forward in strengthening public safety standards across California. The legislation mandates that all security guards complete a certified training course within six months prior to registration, ensuring they are fully equipped to serve as responsible and informed private safety officers.

The training, which must be administered and certified by a single course provider, is designed to enhance guards’ understanding of legal boundaries, situational awareness, and appropriate responses in public safety scenarios.

“Highly trained private security guards are better prepared to navigate complex situations, understand their legal limitations, and protect the public effectively,” said Senator Richardson. “This bill ensures that those entrusted with safety responsibilities are held to a consistent and professional standard.”

SB 652 will officially take effect January 1, 2026, and requires that completion documents be submitted to the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).

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