Who cannot serve as a board member or department employee under the Texas Private Security Act?

The correct answer regarding who cannot serve as a board member or department employee under the Texas Private Security Act is that persons employed by or connected to a Texas trade association in the field are excluded. This is due to the potential for conflicts of interest that could arise if individuals affiliated with trade associations were involved in regulatory decisions or oversight related to the private security industry. The law is designed to ensure that those in positions of influence within the Texas Private Security Bureau remain independent and free from outside influence that could compromise the integrity of their roles.

Individuals from law enforcement agencies and retired law enforcement officers are generally permitted to serve because their experience and background can contribute positively to the oversight and administration of security regulations. While persons with a criminal record may face restrictions, this does not universally exclude all individuals with criminal backgrounds from service, as factors such as the nature of the offense and the time elapsed since could influence eligibility. The emphasis is on protecting the integrity of the regulatory body and avoiding any situations where personal or organizational interests could compromise the objectives of the Texas Private Security Bureau.