1. Nebraska

• Elimination of Locksmith Registration (2021): Following a review under the Occupational Board Reform Act, Nebraska repealed its locksmith registration requirements. The review highlighted issues such as inconsistent certification processes across counties and inadequate registration fees.

2. Illinois

• Scheduled End of Locksmith Licensing (Effective 2029): Illinois plans to terminate its locksmith licensing requirements in 2029. Currently, the state enforces stringent licensing protocols, including background checks and proficiency exams.

3. Local Regulations

• Broward County, Florida has terminated its licensing requirements.

4. Current State Status:

• Licensing Requirements Across States: As of now, 13 states require locksmith licensing: Alabama, California, Connecticut, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, and Virginia.

International Building Code (IBC) Updates

• 2024 IBC Changes: The 2024 edition of the IBC includes revisions affecting electrified hardware and access control systems, which are pertinent to locksmiths involved in the installation and maintenance of such systems. Notably, doors required to have panic hardware are now restricted from using electromagnetic locks released by a sensor; instead, the lock must be released by a switch in the panic hardware.

In Louisiana, there are a few bills in the pipeline which MAY be signed into law in 2025 or 2026:

• House Bill 607 (2024): This bill introduced new categories of licensure for locksmiths, aiming to streamline the licensing process and address emerging specializations within the field.
• House Bill 491 (2024): This legislation amended the Life Safety and Property Protection Licensing Act, providing exemptions for individuals with felony convictions older than 15 years, thereby broadening eligibility for licensure in related professions, including locksmithing.