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Purpose:
To ensure national security and public safety through the establishment of a federal locksmith license, allowing vetted and certified locksmiths to operate across all states. This bill aims to close regulatory gaps by creating consistent, nationwide licensing standards.

Section 1. Findings

1. Current Landscape: Only 15 states require locksmiths to be licensed, leaving 35 states with limited or no oversight. This lack of uniform regulation leads to varying standards and potential security vulnerabilities across the country.
2. National Security Concern: The absence of a standardized locksmith licensing requirement poses a risk, as unvetted individuals have unrestricted access to sensitive security areas in states without licensing mandates. Certified and vetted locksmiths are integral to ensuring security and preventing unauthorized access.
3. Workforce Mobility: The lack of interstate licensing reciprocity restricts certified locksmiths' ability to respond to service demands across state lines. This hinders nationwide providers and limits resources available to communities, especially during emergencies or surges in demand for locksmith services.

Section 2. Federal Locksmith Licensing Program

1. Licensing Requirements:
   
   • All locksmiths operating in the United States will be required to obtain a Federal Locksmith License (FLL) administered by a designated federal authority.
   • Criteria for obtaining the FLL will include background checks, professional training, certification, and passing a standardized examination administered by a national governing body, such as the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).

1. Vetting and Background Checks:
   
   • All applicants must pass comprehensive federal background checks, ensuring only qualified individuals receive licenses. This requirement aligns with national security standards and aids in the safe provision of locksmith services.

1. Renewal and Continuing Education:
   
   • Licensed locksmiths must renew their FLL periodically and complete continuing education on security practices and technological advancements to maintain compliance with federal standards.

1. Implementation and Oversight:
   
   • The licensing program will be developed in partnership with the ALOA, with the assistance of private sector entities like Keys Inc., to ensure standards meet industry needs and safeguard the public.
   • Licensed locksmiths will be listed in a federal registry accessible to consumers, law enforcement, and state regulators.

Section 3. Benefits to Public Safety and Security

1. Enhancing National Security: A federal licensing system would eliminate unregulated locksmith access to homes and businesses in states without current licensing requirements, closing critical security gaps and reducing the risk of criminal exploitation.
2. Supporting National Economic Growth: By allowing certified locksmiths to operate nationwide, we empower locksmiths to support communities more effectively. This enhances economic opportunity within the locksmith industry while addressing consumer demand for secure, certified services.
3. Facilitating Emergency and Remote Access: In emergencies, such as natural disasters or other crises, a national license will expedite the deployment of locksmith services across state lines to areas with acute needs.
4. Promoting Accountability and Professionalism: This legislation will improve consumer confidence and support locksmiths' professional standing, ensuring the public has access to skilled and vetted locksmiths across the nation.

Section 4. The Role of Technology and the Keys Platform

1. Integration of Technology: The Keys Inc. platform will support the federal licensing initiative by offering a robust network for dispatching licensed locksmiths, with features such as:
   
   • Verification of licensed locksmith credentials in real time.
   • Streamlined payments and transparency for consumers.
   • A digital registry of licensed locksmiths, providing easy access to certified professionals.

1. Economic Benefits for National Service Providers: Nationwide providers will benefit from streamlined operations, as a federal license would eliminate the need for locksmiths to hold multiple state licenses, allowing resources to be invested in service expansion and improved security practices.

Section 5. Conclusion

This bill seeks to "Make America Safe Again" by establishing a uniform licensing standard that serves both the locksmith profession and the public. A Federal Locksmith License will bolster national security, protect consumers, and support the professional locksmith community. This bill encourages the U.S. Congress to recognize the critical role locksmiths play in public safety and support a nationwide standard for their credentialing.