WELCOME!  We offer surety bonds & fidelity bonds in CA, IL, TX, FL, WA, TN, PA, CO, OR, OH, MO, NY, LA, WI, MI, IN, KY & MS..  For information, or to order a surety bond, please call (800) 995-0997, email us at info@ameribonds.com, or complete the "INQUIRY FORM" below and a representative will contact you.  AMERIBONDS SURETY is a surety-bonds-only insurance agency, experienced in providing many different types of federal, state and local surety and fidelity bonds in ALL 50 STATES.  Contact our agency for:  low bond premiums for public adjusters fast a friendly service help from experienced insurance agents credit cards accepted   overnight mail service    BAD CREDIT PROGRAM  News Flash!  We are offering the $50,000 Florida Public Adjuster Bond, the new $25,000 Colorado Mortgage Broker Bond, and the $50,000 Louisiana and Mississippi Public Adjuster Bonds at very good rates. All three may be obtained with a single one-page application (no financials), subject to application approval. Thank you!  We appreciate your business. Scroll down to see a partial list of surety and fidelity bonds, as well as questions and answers and legislative updates.  We offer surety bonds & fidelity bonds in CA, IL, TX, FL, WA, CO, OR, NY, OH, TN, PA, MI, LA, MO, IA, WI, IN, AZ, NV, NC, SC, NJ, KY, MS, NM, VA, MD, WV, SD, MN, California, Illinois, Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania.  Our FL Public Adjuster Bonds are $250. Inquiry Form Your Name Phone Fax (optional) () - E-mail Address Type of bond Bond Amount Bond State How's Your Credit Other questions or comments How would you like for us to contact you? Partial List of Surety & Fidelity Bonds     Adjusters bonds Appraisers surety bonds Auction Companies bond Auctioneers surety bonds Auto Dealers surety bonds Auto Title surety bonds Billboards surety bonds CA Screen Actors Guild Care Facility surety bonds Certificate of Title surety bonds Collection Agency bonds Contract surety bonds Contractors Bid bonds Contractors License surety bonds Contractors Payment surety bonds Contractors Performance bonds Deferred Deposit surety bonds Employee Dishonesty surety bonds Employment Agency surety bonds ERISA surety bonds Escrow Agents surety bonds Farm Products Brokers bonds   Fidelity Bonds Games of Chance surety bonds Immigration Assistants NY bonds  Immigration Consultants CA bonds Insurance Adjusters surety bonds Insurance Agents surety bonds Insurance Producer surety bonds Insurance Brokers surety bonds Janitorial Bonds Legal Document Assistants CA License Bond (Misc) Liquor License & Permit bond Lost Trust Deed surety bonds Money Transmitter bonds Mortgage Brokers surety bonds Mortgage Lender bond  Motorcycle Dealers surety bonds Notary Public E & O Notary Public surety bonds Pension Permit Bonds (Misc) Pet Sitting Fidelity Bonds     Photocopiers (Professional) CA Plumbing Contractors bond Postal Contract Station bond Private School surety bonds Private Sewage Disposal bonds Private Water Systems surety bonds Process Servers surety bonds Property Brokers surety bonds Public Adjusters surety bonds Public Officials surety bonds Roofing Contractors surety bonds SAG bonds Sales Tax surety bonds School Bus Drivers surety bonds Talent Agency surety bonds Tax Preparers E & O Tax Preparers surety bonds Transportation Brokers bonds Unlawful Detainer Assistants CA Utility Deposit surety bonds Vehicle Registration Services CA Wholesale Auto Dealers surety bonds   Q&A's How much will my surety bond cost?  Your surety bond premium is determined by the surety bonding company. Each type of surety bond is considered for its risk to the surety company and priced differently. Premiums often vary from state to state. The CA notary public bond is $50/4 yrs, IL notary public bond $30/4 yrs, TX notary public bond $50/4 yrs, MI notary public bond is $55/6 yrs, and the WI notary public bond $20/4 yrs, etc. Notary E&O is also available and in some states is free with purchase of your surety bond.  How do I pay for my surety bond?  We accept credit cards, debit cards, as well as business checks and postal money orders, except for our bad credit program for which we will need a bank cashier's check, postal money order, or credit card payment. How long will it take to get my surety bond? Some license and permit bonds are e-mailed, faxed, or mailed the same day. Others require more approval time.  Overnight mail service helps to expedite the process.   Phone number to call for information or a bond? Call free (800) 995-0997 or local (618) 242-5996  Where is Ameribonds Surety located?  2700 Richview Rd, PO Box 746, Mt Vernon, IL 62864 Legislative        Updates ALABAMA - AL State Legislature H.B. 27 creates the Alabama Boxing Commission; subsection (b) requires promoters to post a performance bond in an amount and under any conditions required by the Commission; provides that the Commission may, prior to issuing any match permit, require a performance bond in addition to that required in subsection (b). (5-1-07: Passed the House, transmitted to Senate; read first time, referred to committee) H.B. 175 relates to off-road vehicles and ATVs; certificate of title required for model year 2005 and thereafter; contains provisions for a certificate of title bond. (4-11-07: In House; read second time, placed on calendar 5 pending third reading on day 13; favorable from Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry) H.B. 268 provides that the awarding authority may require bidders to furnish a bid bond on any contract if bonding is available for the services, equipment or materials; removes the $10,000 minimum contract price. (3-8-07: In House; read first time, referred to Government Operations Committee) H.B. 339 relates to competitive bidding by local governmental and educational instrumentalities; authorizes a local preference where the bid from a local vendor is greater than the bid of the lowest responsible bidder; provides for making an award to the second lowest responsible bidder in the event that the lowest responsible bidder defaults under the bid award. (5-3-07: In Senate; read second time, placed on calendar) H.B. 698 concerns the sale of preneed funeral and cemetery merchandise and services; provides that the amount of the initial surety bond of a newly authorized preneed provider with no outstanding liability shall be set by the commissioner in the amount certified by the preneed provider as the amount of outstanding liability expected to be incurred in the next 12 months. (4-26-07: In House; read second time, placed on calendar pending third reading on Day 16; favorable from Banking and Insurance) H.B. 708 establishes title law specifically for manufactured homes; provides that every dealer may qualify as a designated agent of the department. Dealers are required to post a $50,000 bond. (5-2-07: In House; read second time, placed on calendar; favorable from Commerce with one substitute) H.B. 749 revises the motor fuel tax collection and enforcement system; approved applicants shall file the following bond: supplier, permissive supplier, terminal operator or importer - $2,000,000; exporter, blender or distributor – minimum of $2,000 or an amount equal to two months tax liability, whichever is greater; motor fuel transporter – no bond. (4-24-07: Introduced in House; read first time, referred to Government Appropriations) H.B. 790 requires regulated heating, air conditioning and refrigeration contractors to post a $15,000 performance bond; requires continuing education every year instead of every other year. (5-1-07: Introduced in House; read first time, referred to Boards and Commissions) S.B. 44 is similar to H.B. 27. (3-13-07: In Senate; read second time, placed on calendar pending third reading on day 4; reported as favorable from Government Affairs) S.B. 233 is similar to H.B. 339. (3-22-07: In Senate; read second time, placed on calendar pending third reading on day 7; favorable from Government Affairs) S.B. 331 relates to auctioneers; licensure and regulation further provided for; Internet auctions licensing required; complaint procedure altered. (3-29-07: In Senate; read first time, referred to Governmental Affairs) S.B. 410 is the Senate companion to H.B. 698. (4-12-07: In Senate; read first time, referred to Economic Expansion and Trade) S.B. 428 relates to Crenshaw County; requires an additional bond of the Judge of Probate. The Judge of Probate of Crenshaw County shall perform all duties relative to the assessment and collection of taxes on motor vehicles, motor vehicle titles, and non-motorized vehicles in Crenshaw County which the revenue commissioner is required under the law to perform. Before entering upon the additional duties imposed by this act, the judge of probate shall execute an additional bond in a sum prescribed by a written recommendation to the judge of probate from the Examiners of Public Accounts. (4-24-07: In Senate; read first time, referred to Local Legislation; favorable from Local Legislation) S.B. 442 is similar to H.B. 790. (5-3-07: In Senate; favorable from Governmental Affairs with one amendment) ALASKA - AK State Legislature H.B. 158 provides for licensing and regulation of private investigators and agencies; requires licensees to post a bond of at least $15,000. (4-4-07: In House; Judiciary recommends do pass; referred to Finance) H.B. 227 relates to the Uniform Money Services Act, money transmission services and currency exchange services; licensees must maintain a surety bond, letter of credit or similar security in the amount of $25,000, plus $5,000 for each location, not exceeding a total addition of $125,000; provides that a surety bond must cover claims for as long as the department specifies, but for at least 5 years after the licensee ceases to provide money services in the state. However, the department may permit the amount of security to be reduced or eliminated before the expiration of that time. (5-5-07: In House; referred to Finance) S.B. 18 relates to property foreclosures and executions; trustees are required to post a $25,000 bond before performing the duties of a trustee. (3-21-07: In Senate; recommended as substituted; added section on bond requirement; referred to Judiciary) S.B. 116 relates to money transmission and currency exchange service providers; requires applicants for a license to post security in the form of a surety bond, letter of credit or other similar security acceptable to the department in the amount of $25,000, plus $5,000 for each location, not exceeding a total addition of $125,000. (5-10-07: In House; read first time, referred to Finance) ARIZONA - AZ State Legislature H.B. 2406 relates to contractors; concerns retention money and interest accounts; provides that at the option of the subcontractor and in lieu of the retention, the financier, owner or contractor shall accept in writing as a substitute any of the following: ...(B) a performance bond. (3-20-07: Passed the House, transmitted to Senate; second read) H.B. 2463 relates to contractors; persons required to be registered must provide proof of a surety bond; the Registrar must be notified of any change in address or telephone number within 30 days; the Registrar shall impose a civil penalty of not more than $1,000 per violation for failure to maintain a surety bond, among other things. (1-24-07: In House; read second time) H.B. 2607 relates to indemnity agreement in construction and architect-engineer contracts; excludes agreements for indemnification of a surety on a payment or performance bond by its principal or indemnitors. (3-15-07: Passed the House, transmitted to the Senate; assigned to Rules Committee; second read) S.B. 1635 relates to freeway acceleration and sensible transportation lanes; requires private entities entering into a contract to provide a performance bond or other “surety” for the project as the Department may reasonably require. (2-13-07: In Senate; Transportation Committee recommends do pass) ARKANSAS - AR General Assembly NEW LAW – H.B. 1387 (approved on 4-4-07; Act 874) promotes insurance coverage for construction contracts and to protect the construction industry from insurance policy limitations; adds an additional section which provides that hold harmless clauses in public construction contracts are unenforceable; defines terms. NEW LAW – H.B. 1753 (approved on 4-4-07; Act 939) amends the State Sewage Disposal Systems Act; eliminates the bond requirement for sewage disposal systems installers. NEW LAW – H.B. 1808 (approved on 4-4-07; Act 950) provides for a general improvement appropriation to the disbursing officer of the Department of Finance and Administration for the Small Contractors Surety Bonding and Mentor Protégée Training Pilot Program. NEW LAW – H.B. 2225 (signed by the Governor on 3-22-07; Act 450) provides that no surety bond is necessary for licensure for an amusement device operator that limits the placement of devices to county, district and state fairs for less than three months per year. H.B. 2450 provides that no bond shall be required for a public construction contract totaling $20,000 or less. (5-1-07: Died in committee at Sine Die adjournment) H.B. 2467 regulates licensed and unlicensed residential building contractors; requires contractors to post a bond. (3-29-07: Died in committee) H.B. 2482 establishes the special needs scholarship program; requires institutions to demonstrate their financial viability by showing they can repay any funds owed the state if they are to receive $50,000 or more during the school year by (a) filing with the department, prior to the start of the school year, a surety bond in an amount equal to the aggregate amount of the special needs scholarships expected to be paid during the school year to eligible students admitted. (5-1-07: Died in committee at Sine Die adjournment) H.B. 2483 establishes the parental choice scholarship program; establishes the special needs scholarship program; requires institutions to demonstrate their financial viability by showing they can repay any funds owed the state if they are to receive $50,000 or more during the school year by (a) filing with the department, prior to the start of the school year, a surety bond in an amount equal to the aggregate amount of the parental choice scholarships expected to be paid during the school year to eligible students admitted. (5-1-07: Died in committee at Sine Die adjournment) H.B. 2510 reestablishes fairness, transparency and competition in the bidding practices for the construction of publicly funded buildings, infrastructure and facilities; the following subsection is being eliminated: (f)(1) Construction contracts for the projects shall not be entered into without a payment and performance bond in the amount of the contract and any amendments thereto and shall provide for the manner in which the construction shall be managed and supervised. (5-1-07: Died in committee at Sine Die adjournment) NEW LAW – H.B. 2518 (approved on 4-9-07; Act 1595) adopts the Uniform Money Services Act; provides that except as otherwise provided in subsection (b), a surety bond, letter of credit or other similar security acceptable to the commissioner in the amount of $50,000 plus $10,000 per location, not exceeding a total addition of $ 250,000, must accompany an application for a license. NEW LAW – H.B. 2602 (approved on 4-3-07; Act 832) requires financial assurance to operate nonmunicipal domestic sewage treatment works in the state; may be in the form of a surety bond. H.B. 2608 concerns the family education tax credit act; demonstrate financial viability if they are to receive contributions of $50,000 or more during the school year by filing a surety bond in an amount equal to the aggregate amount of contributions expected to be received during the school year. (5-1-07: In House; Died in committee at Sine Die adjournment) NEW LAW – H.B. 2713 (approved on 4-9-07; Act 1603) amends the Transient Merchant Licensing Act of 1983; the $2,000 bond requirement remains. NEW LAW – S.B. 275 (signed by the Governor on 3-29-07; Act 583) eliminates the $5,000 bond requirement for burial associations. CALIFORNIA - CA State Assembly A.B. 69 repeals the check sellers, bill payers and proraters law and enacts the Uniform Debt Settlement Services Act. Commencing June 1, 2008, this bill would provide for the registration and regulation of persons who provide, offer to provide, or agree to provide debt settlement services, as defined, directly or through others. (4-24-07: In Assembly; amended; re-referred to Banking and Finance) A.B. 113 provides that any general acute care hospital that is designated as an essential community facility pursuant to this section shall furnish a performance security in the form of a performance bond, in an amount determined by the county board of supervisors. (5-2-07: In Assembly Appropriations; first hearing set; referred to suspense file) A.B. 610 relates to the Small Business Expansion Fund, which is created under the law and continuously appropriated; provides funds to be used to pay for defaulted loan guarantees and administrative costs; limits the amount of guarantee liability outstanding with respect to these funds to five times the amount of funds on deposit in the expansion fund or in a corporation’s trust fund account. (5-10-07: In Assembly Appropriations; first hearing set; referred to suspense file) A.B. 916 relates to design-build contracts; specifies that projects do not include the construction or improvement of a building that is owned and operated as part of a public airport. (5-10-07: Referred to Local Government; from Committee, do pass as amended) A.B. 1036 authorizes a sanitation district, with the approval of the appropriate governing body in the County of Nevada, to enter into design-build contracts; shall possess or obtain sufficient bonding to cover the contract amount for non-design services and errors and omissions insurance coverage sufficient to cover all design and architectural services provided in the contract. (4-25-07: In Local Government; first hearing cancelled) A.B. 1070 establishes specified procedures for the Legislature to advertise for bids, accepting bids and awarding contracts; provides that all bids shall be presented under sealed cover and accompanied by cash, cashier’s check, certified check or a bidder’s bond. (4-18-07: Re-referred to Business and Professions) A.B. 1076 modifies provisions of existing law that relate to the payment of prevailing wages on public works projects by contractors and subcontractors and the procedures if such wages are not paid, to provide that an affected contractor, subcontractor or surety become liable for liquidated damages after 60 days following the service of assessment or notice of withholding, only if no request for a hearing has been made. Requires those affected to pay all wages due within a specified timeframe. (4-23-07: From Committee; re-referred to Appropriations) A.B. 1356 requires the representative of an equity purchaser to demonstrate financial responsibility by providing written proof of and a statement under penalty of perjury that he or she has any of the following: professional liability coverage or a surety bond in an amount equal to at least twice the value of the property subject to the contract. (4-24-07: In Judiciary; first hearing cancelled) A.B. 1491 requires the Department of Transportation to establish a Small and Emerging Contractor Technical Assistance Program for the purpose of providing training and technical assistance to small contractors to improve their ability to secure surety bonds and liability insurance to qualify for public works construction projects. Authorizes the department to charge a fee to participate in the program and to award a certificate upon the completion of the program. (5-1-07: In Assembly; from Committee, re-referred to Appropriations) A.B. 1510 authorizes the County of Kern to use the design-build process; requires performance and payment bonds. (3-29-07: In Assembly; referred to Local Government) A.B. 1615 prohibits all state agencies from awarding any contract for a public works project, goods and services, and information technology goods and services to a bidder or contractor that hires an unauthorized alien; requires state agencies to verify that all of the employees of a bidder or contractor have been subject to the Basic Pilot Program Extension and Expansion Act of 2003. (4-10-07: In Assembly; set first hearing, failed passage; reconsideration granted) A.B. 1639 relates to surplus lines brokers; provides that a surplus line broker bond is not required for an individual licensed as a surplus line broker who only transacts on behalf of a licensed surplus line broker organization. (5-3-07: In Assembly; re-referred to Appropriations) A.B. 1695 creates the Surety Bond Guarantee Account within the California Small Business Expansion Fund; $40,000,000 shall be transferred from the State Highway Account to the Surety Bond Guarantee Account as a loan to be repaid. (5-1-07: In Assembly; re-referred to Appropriations) A.C.R. 35 - Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, that the Legislature approves for continued study by the California Law Revision Commission the topics listed below, all of which the Legislature has previously authorized or directed the commission to study: (1) Whether the law should be revised that relates to creditors' remedies, including, but not limited to, attachment, garnishment, execution, repossession of property (including the claim and delivery statute, self-help repossession of property, and the Commercial Code provisions on repossession of property), confession of judgment procedures, default judgment procedures, enforcement of judgments, the right of redemption, procedures under private power of sale in a trust deed or mortgage, possessory and nonpossessory liens, insolvency, and related matters; and (2) Whether the California Probate Code should be revised, including, but not limited to, the issue of whether California should adopt, in whole or in part, the Uniform Probate Code, and related matters. (4-10-07: From Judiciary Committee, be adopted; re-referred to Appropriations with recommendation; to consent calendar) S.B. 56 declares the intent of the legislature to authorize a demonstration program that would allow careful examination of the benefits and challenges of using a design-build method of procurement for transportation projects; authorizes certain state and local transportation entities to use a design-build process for contracting on transportation projects; requires implementation of a labor compliance program; establishes a procedure for submitting bids; payment and performance bonds would be required. (5-7-07: In Senate; re-referred to Appropriations; set for hearing on 5-14) S.B. 442 relates to transit projects and design-build contracting; authorizes the Orange County Transit District to enter into design-build contracts for transit projects in accordance with specified provisions. (4-24-07: Set second hearing; failed passage in Committee; reconsideration granted) S.B. 482 authorizes a tenant to purchase a bond or commercial insurance policy to secure the performance of the terms and conditions of a rental agreement in lieu of posting a security deposit with a landlord. (5-2-07: In Senate; referred to Judiciary; first hearing cancelled) S.B. 593 relates to the State Contract Act which governs contracting between state agencies and private contractors, and sets forth requirements for the procurement of supplies, materials, equipment and services by state agencies. (5-9-07: From Committee with author’s amendments, read second time, amended; re-referred to Appropriations) S.B. 619 relates to public contracts and retention proceeds; provides that the percentage of retention proceeds between a contractor and subcontractor may not exceed a percentage of the payment; relates to the contract price; requires the Department of General Services to withhold a percentage of the contract price until final completion and acceptance of the project; relates to bids and required bonds for public works; includes state universities. (5 8-07: In Senate Appropriations; set for hearing on 5-14) S.B. 645 authorizes the Orange County Sanitation District to enter into design-build contracts in excess of a specified amount. (4-19-07: Read second time, to third reading) S.B. 683 authorizes the City of Santa Paula to use the design-build process to build a wastewater plant; payment/performance bond required. (3-8-07: In Senate; referred to Local Government) S.B. 738 relates to works of improvement. The Contractors' State License Law requires a prime contractor or subcontractor to pay to any subcontractor, not later than within 10 days of receipt of each progress payment, unless otherwise agreed to in writing, the respective amounts allowed the contractor on account of the work performed by the subcontractors, to the extent of each subcontractor's interest therein. A similar provision applies under the State Contract Act with respect to payments made by a contractor, prime contractor or subcontractor to a subcontractor. Any contractor or his or her agent or employee who permits the violation of any contract awarded pursuant to the State Contract Act to the injury of the state, and any subcontractor or agent or employee of any contractor or subcontractor who has knowledge of any work being done in violation of any contract under the State Contract Act and does not report it is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment in the state prison. This bill would instead require, under both the Contractors' State License Law and the State Contract Act, a contractor, prime contractor or subcontractor, as applicable, to pay those amounts to the subcontractor not later than within 7, rather than 10, days of receipt of each progress payment. By expanding the scope of a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. Existing law requires that a 20-day public work preliminary bond notice be given under specified circumstances. If the notice is not given, a claimant may enforce a claim by giving written notice to the surety and the bond principal within 15 days after recordation of a notice of completion. If no notice of completion has been recorded, the time for giving written notice to the surety and the bond principal is extended to 75 days after completion of the work of improvement. This bill would delete the provisions authorizing a claimant to enforce a claim by giving written notice to the surety and the bond principal within 15 days after recordation of a notice of completion and extending the time for giving written notice to the surety and bond principal to 75 days after completion of the work of improvement if a notice of completion has not been recorded. Existing law requires the original contractor to pay each of its subcontractors from whom retention has been withheld, each subcontractor's share of the retention received, within 10 days from the time that all or any portion of the retention proceeds are received by the original contractor. Within 10 days of receipt of written notice by the owner from the original contractor or by the original contractor from the subcontractor, as applicable, that any work in dispute has been completed in accordance with the terms of the contract, the owner or original contractor is required to advise the notifying party of the acceptance or rejection of the disputed work. Within 10 days of acceptance of the disputed work, the owner or original contractor is required to release the retained portion of the retention proceeds. This bill would require those acts to be taken within 7, rather than 10, days. (4-19-07: Set second hearing; cancelled) S.B. 823 recasts, revises and reenacts the provisions of the Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education Reform Act of 1989 as the Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2007; establishes a board; provides that if the Board determines after notice and, if requested by the institution, a hearing, that an institution has violated this article but that the institution's approval to operate or approval to operate a branch or satellite campus or any approved program thereof should not be revoked, or that the institution should not be ordered to cease offering a class or program of instruction, the Board may do any or all of the following: (i) order the institution to post a bond. (ii) (i) any bond ordered by the Board shall be issued by an admitted surety insurer in an amount established at the discretion of the Board that is sufficient to protect students from the potential consequences of the violation. (ii) the bond shall be in favor of the State of California for the indemnification of any person for any loss, including the loss of prepaid tuition, suffered as a result of the occurrence of any violation of this chapter during the period of coverage. (iii) liability on the bond may be enforced after a hearing before the Board, after 30 days' advance written notice to the principal and surety. This subclause supplements, but does not supplant, any other rights or remedies to enforce liability on the bond. (5-7-07: Placed on Appropriations suspense file) S.B. 935 specifies that a public utility, defined as a public entity for limited purposes, must require the payment bond of its contractors, and must submit copies of those payment bonds to the PUC or any worker or member of the public. (4-23-07: In Senate; referred to Labor and Industrial Relations; first hearing cancelled) S.B. 1047 increases the contractors license bond from $7,500 to $12,500. (5-10-07: In Senate; to special consent calendar) COLORADO - CO General Assembly NEW LAW – H.B. 1073 (signed by the Governor on 3-16-07; Eff. 8-8-07) concerns the use of the Basic Pilot Program in connection with a public contract for services in order to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. H.B. 1081 concerns the sale of powersports vehicles; provides that they can only be sold by persons licensed by the Motor Vehicle Dealer Board; $30,000 bond required. (5-1-07: In House; considered Senate amendments, laid over daily 5-1; concurred and repassed) H.B. 1115 concerns payment of amounts due under a construction contract; no retainage may be withheld from a contractor by an owner, from a subcontractor by a contractor, or from a second-tier subcontractor or a supplier by a subcontractor. (3-8-07: Postponed indefinitely-DEAD) H.B. 1151 concerns the regulation of cigarette sales; provides that a license may not be issued or renewed to a wholesaler unless evidence of a surety bond has been filed. The bond shall be in an amount equal to the wholesaler's anticipated total monthly purchase of stamps. The amount of a wholesaler's anticipated total monthly purchase shall be determined solely in the discretion of the wholesaler. For each consecutive year that a wholesaler is not delinquent in the payment of taxes imposed, as determined by the executive director of the department, the amount of the bond shall be reduced by an amount equal to 20 percentage points of the wholesaler's anticipated total monthly purchase of stamps. (3-22-07: Postponed indefinitely-DEAD) H.B. 1159 concerns the manner in which a special district conducts a ballot issue election; requires the special district to file with a county clerk and recorder a surety bond in an amount equal to the estimated share of the coordinated election costs. (4-30-07: Sent to the Governor) H.B. 1209 concerns the creation of a program to offer technical assistance to historically underutilized businesses in attaining the performance bonds required to bid on state procurement contracts. (5-1-07: In House; considered Senate amendments; concurred and repassed) H.B. 1215 concerns the regulation of debt-management services; enacts the Uniform Debt-Management Services Act; requires applicants to file a $50,000 bond or such other amount as determined by the administrator. (5-3-07: In House Committee on Appropriations; postponed indefinitely-DEAD) H.B. 1337 increases the bond for commodity handlers from not less than $10,000 nor more than $1,000,000 (currently $200,00). (4-27-07: Sent to the Governor) S.B. 57 concerns the regulation of debt settlement services; enacts the Uniform Debt Settlement Services Act; requires providers to post a bond. (5-3-07: In Senate; considered House amendments; concurred and repassed) NEW LAW – S.B. 87 (signed by the Governor on 4-11-07; Eff. 7-1-07) concerns a prohibition against the shifting of financial responsibility for negligence in construction agreements. S.B. 221 increases the motor vehicle dealer bond from $30,000 to $50,000; increases the salesperson bond from $5,000 to $15,000. (4-24-07: In Senate; considered House amendments, concurred, repassed; laid over daily) CONNECTICUT - CT General Assembly H.B. 5569 provides funds for payment bonds to minority contractors working on projects in Bridgeport. (1-17-07: Referred to Joint Committee on Commerce) H.B. 7053 provides that the Department of Consumer Protection shall not issue, continue or renew a liquor permit until the licensee submits proof of financial responsibility sufficient to satisfy any claim for damages; can be a surety bond. (4-5-07: In House; referred to General Law; no action) H.B. 7088 provides that every general bid shall be accompanied by a bid bond or a certified check in an amount which shall be 10% of the bid, provided no such bid bond or certified check shall be required in relation to any general bid in which the total estimated cost of labor and materials under the contract is less than $50,000. (2-8-07: In House; referred to Government Administration and Elections) H.B. 7202 concerns the discharging of mechanics’ liens by general contractors; allows a general contractor to cause a subcontractor’s mechanic’s lien to be discharged upon proof to the court that the subcontractor has been paid in full or that the work was performed in an unworkmanlike manner by the subcontractor. (5-1-07: In House; filed with the Legislative Commissioner’s Office) H.B. 7392 concerns the seizure and custody of neglected or cruelly treated animals; increases the bond from $450 to $500. (5-9-07: In House; referred to Committee on Environment) S.B. 41 establishes uniform standards for all state agencies in the area of contracting; procurements. (5-8-07: In Senate; favorable report from Planning and Development; tabled for the calendar) S.B. 1063 concerns state contracting and the prequalification program administered by the Department of Administrative Services. Requires surety contracts to contain certain language when the contractor seeking the surety bond has a public building construction contract with the state or a municipality estimated to cost more than $500,000. (4-25-07: In Senate; reported out of Legislative Commissioners’ Office) S.B. 1143 concerns mortgage, small loan and money transmitter licensees, mortgage loans and emergency orders of the Banking Commissioner; establishes that real estate brokers and salespersons who act as a mortgage broker or originator shall be licensed or registered as such; change of location notification. (4-30-07: Filed with Legislative Commissioners’ Office) S.B. 1288 requires the licensing of private solid waste haulers; licensees shall file a $10,000 bond for each vehicle used. (2-22-07: In Senate; referred to Joint Committee on Environment) DELAWARE - DE General Assembly None available at this time. FLORIDA - FL State Legislature H.B. 985 concerns surety bonds for construction or maintenance contracts. A surety bond shall be required of the successful bidder in an amount equal to the awarded contract price. However, the department may choose, in its discretion and applicable only to multiyear maintenance contracts, to allow for incremental annual contract bonds that cumulatively total the full, awarded, multiyear contract price. For a project for which the contract price is $250,000 (currently $150,000) or less, the department may waive the requirement for all or a portion of a surety bond if it determines the project is of a noncritical nature and nonperformance will not endanger public health, safety or property. (5-4-07: In House; taken up, concurred; Committee substitute passed as amended; ordered engrossed, then enrolled) H.B. 1077 relates to the city of Key West; removes certain surety requirement; provides that board may accept lowest cost or best bid; revises provision relating to contracts. (5-2-07: In Senate; withdrawn from Rules; placed on local calendar; read second and third times; Committee substitute passed; in House; ordered enrolled) H.B. 1153 relates to Hillsborough County Aviation Authority; amends a special act regarding the award of contracts; increases the minimum amount at which certain contracts are subject to competitive bidding or require sureties ($15,000 to $50,000). (5-2-07: In Senate; withdrawn from Rules; placed on local calendar; read second and third times; passed; in House; ordered enrolled) H.B. 1217 relates to winery shippers; provides requirements for licensure; shippers must file a $5,000 bond. (5-4-07: Died in Jobs & Entrepreneurship Council) H.B. 1283 relates to black business investment; provides that the Board is authorized to establish, with or without public or private partners, guarantor funds to assist qualified black business enterprises in obtaining surety bonds and other credit instruments when required. (4-30-07: In Senate; read third time; Committee substitute passed; in House; ordered enrolled) H.B. 1285 relates to construction liens; requires a performance bond for certain contracts with private entities for specified public works projects; requires that certain notices by claimants be in writing; provides for owner and contractor to agree to furnishing of payment bond. (5-3-07: In Senate; read third time; Committee substitute passed; in House; ordered enrolled) H.B. 1381 relates to branch insurance agencies; authorizes certain licensed agents to be agent in charge of branch locations under certain circumstances; provides limitations; provides that public adjusters shall maintain the $50,000 bond unimpaired throughout the existence of the license and for at least one year after termination of the license. (5-2-07: In Senate; read third time; Committee substitute passed; in House; ordered enrolled) H.B. 1395 relates to Coral Springs improvement district; increases minimum contract bid amount and provides additional requirements for procurement of goods or services. (5-2-07: In Senate; withdrawn from Rules; placed on local calendar; read second and third times; Committee substitute passed; in House; ordered enrolled) H.B. 1447 relates to video lottery; each video lottery retailer shall post a bond in an amount determined by the department which is sufficient to guarantee the payment of revenue due in any payment period. (5-4-07: Died in Jobs & Entrepreneurship Council) H.B. 1489 relates to public project construction bonds; specifies amounts, criteria and requirements for payment and performance bonds. (5-3-07: In House; concurred; Committee substitute passed as amended; ordered engrossed, then enrolled) H.B. 1505 relates to regulation of venomous reptiles, including requirements for licensing for capturing, keeping, possessing, transporting or exhibiting them; increases the bond from $1,000 to $10,000. (5-1-07: Substituted by S.B. 2766; laid on table) H.B. 7075 is similar to H.B. 985. (5-4-07: Died in Conference Committee) S.B. 126 relates to winery shippers; requires licensees to file a $5,000 bond for payment of all taxes, unless the volume of business is such that a bond of less than $5,000 will be adequate, in which case a lesser bond will be accepted but not less than $1,000. (5-4-07: Died in Criminal Justice) S.B. 698 relates to Florida Commercial Anti-Pornography Act; provides that in an action brought under this section, upon a motion filed by the party against whom the action is brought alleging that the action is frivolous, without legal or factual merit, or brought for the purpose of harassment, the court may, after hearing evidence as to the necessity therefor, and after review of the alleged pornographic materials, require the party instituting the action to post a bond in an amount not to exceed $ 10,000, which the court finds reasonable to indemnify the defendant for any damages incurred, including reasonable attorney's fees. (5-4-07: Died in Commerce) S.B. 1270 provides that contractors paid from university funds shall give bond for the faithful performance of their contracts in such amount and for such purposes as prescribed by § 255.05 or by rules of the board of governors relating to the type of contract involved. It shall be the duty of the university board of trustees to require from construction contractors a bond adequate to protect the board and the board's funds involved. (4-24-07: In House; read third time; Committee substitute passed; in Senate; ordered enrolled) S.B. 1810 creates the Florida Security and Immigration Compliance Act; prohibits public employers and the Department of Transportation from entering into contracts for physical performance of services within the state with contractors not registered and participating in the Federal Work Authorization Program by a specified date; provides procedures and requirements regarding registration of contractors and subcontractors. (5-4-07: Died in Military Affairs and Domestic Security) S.B. 1928 relates to transportation. Notwithstanding § 255.05, the Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority may waive payment and performance bonds on construction contracts for the construction of a public building, for the prosecution and completion of a public work, or for repairs on a public building or public work that has a cost of $500,000 or less, and when the project is awarded pursuant to an economic development program for the encouragement of local small businesses that has been adopted by the governing body of the Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority pursuant to a resolution or policy. (5-3-07: Substituted by H.B. 985) S.B. 2090 relates to public building construction bonds; increases from $200,000 to $500,000 the value of such contract for a county, municipality, political subdivision or public authority which may be exempted from the requirement to execute payment or performance bonds. (5-4-07: Died in Regulated Industries) S.B. 2376 clarifies provisions that require contractors who contract with state or local government for certain public buildings or public works to provide performance and payments bonds equal to the full contract amount; allows set off in amount of certain bonds required to be provided by subcontractors. (5-1-07: Substituted by H.B. 1489) S.B. 2380 requires eligible nonpublic schools to demonstrate fiscal soundness by being in operation for one school year or provide the Department of Education with a statement by a CPA confirming that the nonpublic school desiring to participate is insured, and the owner(s) have sufficient capital or credit to operate the school for the upcoming year serving the number of students anticipated with expected revenues from tuition and other sources which may be reasonably expected. In lieu of such a statement, a surety bond or letter of credit for the amount equal to the scholarship funds for any quarter may be filed with the Department. (5-2-07: Substituted by H.B. 7145) S.B. 2766 is the Senate companion to H.B. 1505. (5-2-07: In House; read third time; amendment failed; Committee substitute passed; in Senate; ordered enrolled) S.B. 2768 is the Senate companion to H.B. 1285. (5-2-07: Substituted by H.B. 1285) S.B. 2804 relates to transportation; provides that surety bonds for construction or maintenance contracts shall be required of the successful bidder in an amount equal to the awarded contract price; however, the Department may choose, in its discretion and applicable only to multiyear maintenance contracts, allow for incremental annual contract bonds that cumulatively total the full, awarded, multiyear contract price. For a project for which the contract price is $250,000 (increased from $150,000) or less, the Department may waive the requirement for all or a portion of a surety bond if it determines that the project is of a noncritical nature and nonperformance will not endanger public health, safety or property. (5-4-07: Died on calendar) S.B. 2860 is the Senate companion to H.B. 1283. (4-27-07: Substituted by H.B. 1283) S.B. 2880 is related to S.B. 2804. (5-4-07: Died in Transportation) S.B. 2930 is related to H.B. 1153. (5-4-07: Died in Rules) S.B. 2934 is related to H.B. 1077. (5-4-07: Died in Rules) GEORGIA - GA General Assembly H.B. 134 relates to bid bonds for public works bidding for local governments; changes certain provisions relating to cash in lieu of bid bonds and letters of credit, and acceptable substitutes for bonds. (4-30-07: Sent to the Governor) H.B. 163 provides for licensing of persons who provide deferred presentment services; requires licensees to post a bond in the sum of $25,000 per location, not to exceed a total of $250,000. (3-27-07: In House; lost reconsidered bill/res; reconsidered) H.B. 192 raises the threshold on certain contracts from $50,000 to $100,000. (4-27-07: Sent to the Governor) H.B. 420 provides that all persons engaged in the business of making loans of $3,000 or less shall post a bond in the sum of $25,000 per location, not to exceed a total of $250,000. (2 15-07: In House; second readers) H.B. 457 relates to the administrative process for the issuance of special license plates. After July 1, 2007, any party requesting a special license plate not previously authorized by this chapter shall make application with the department. The application shall include a design of the proposed license plate and a bond of $50,000 to serve as surety for moneys collected from applicants by the sponsor. (4-30-07: Sent to the Governor) H.B. 560 provides that any person or business which offers for sale a photographic speed detection device shall be registered with the Secretary of State and shall post a $5,000 bond for each device to be sold in the state. (2-28-07: In House; second readers) H.B. 563 relates to state license requirements and regulations for the manufacture, distribution and sale of malt beverages; surety bond required in the same manner as required pursuant to Code Section 3-5-25.1. (2-28-07: In House; second readers) H.B. 789 provides that any private person who operates a public water system pursuant to contract with a county, municipality or local government authority shall be required to give a performance bond, payable to the county, municipality or local government authority and issued by an insurance company authorized to issue such bonds in this state, conditioned upon faithful compliance with the contract and in such amount as determined by the county, municipality or local government authority as necessary to assure the continued supply of water in accordance with such contract. No such contract for which a performance bond is required shall be valid for any purpose unless the contractor shall give such performance bond. (3-30-07: In House; second readers) H.B. 798 requires pharmacy benefits managers to maintain a fidelity bond equal to one percent of the amount of funds handled or managed annually. (4-11-07: In House; second readers) S.B. 70 provides that the amount of the bond for check sellers shall be increased by an additional $ 5,000.00 for each location, other than the licensee's primary place of business, at or through which the applicant proposes to engage in the business of selling or issuing checks in this state, until the principal sum of the bond shall total a maximum of $250,000.00. (4-26-07: Sent to the Governor) HAWAII - HI State Legislature H.B. 70 allows the state to enter into agreements with private entities to build, operate, own or finance transportation facilities, including toll highways; requires a private partner to provide performance and payment bonds, etc., the penal sum or amount of which may be less than 100% of the value of the contract involved. (3-8-07: In Senate; passed first reading, referred to Transportation & International Affairs/Tourism; Government Operations; Ways and Means) H.B. 184 enacts Uniform Debt-Management Services Act; requires registration of providers; requires providers to post a surety bond in the amount of $50,000 or other larger or smaller amount that the administrator determines is warranted by the financial condition and business experience of the provider. (1-22-07: In House; referred to Consumer Protection & Commerce/Judiciary, Finance) H.B. 430 requires check cashers to give and keep in force a $5,000 bond. (2-9-07: In House; Judiciary Committee recommends the measure be deferred) H.B. 1040 amends and updates provisions for the licensing and regulation of escrow depositories; increases the net worth or bond amount from $50,000 to $250,000. (1-31-07: In House; hearing held) H.B. 1315 clarifies who is exempt from mortgage brokers and solicitors provisions and what constitutes prohibited activity; establishes license application requirements and includes a written examination of the applicant or its designated responsible individual, along with a $50,000 bond requirement for a licensee; establishes biennial license renewal which includes completion of a continuing education requirement. (1-31-07: In House; Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee recommends the measure be deferred) H.B. 1339 (Governor’s package bill) ensures an adequate supply of licensed contractors available to perform necessary repairs and reconstruction work during a state of emergency or disaster; establishes an Emergency Contractors Recovery Fund. (4-19-07: In Senate; received notice of change in conferees) H.B. 1627 provides that each condominium project or association having more than five units shall secure and maintain a fidelity bond in an amount for the coverage and terms as required by Section 514B-143(A)(3). An association shall act promptly and diligently to recover from the fidelity bond. An association that is unable to obtain a fidelity bond may seek approval for an exemption, a deductible or a bond alternative from the commission. Current evidence of a fidelity bond includes a certification statement from an insurance company registered with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs certifying that the bond is in effect and meets the requirement of this section and the rules adopted by the commission. (3-8-07: In Senate; passed first reading, referred to Commerce, Consumer Protection & Affordable Housing) H.B. 1703 provides that the state agency may require the recipient of a certificate of need to furnish a performance bond... in an amount to be determined by the state agency, at its discretion, to ensure the proper implementation of the certificate of need. (2-14-07: In House; Health, Finance Committee recommends the measure be deferred) H.B. 1833 relates to unfair business practices; provides that no person or entity, public or private, requiring a bid, payment or performance bond as security to guarantee the performance of any contract for the construction of improvements to real property shall require any person or entity to acquire the bond from a particular surety or group of sureties or a producer or agent of any surety or group of sureties. (4-27-07: Transferred to the Governor) S.B. 159 is the Senate companion bill to H.B. 184. (2-9-07: In Senate; Commerce, Consumer Protection & Affordable Housing deferred the measure) S.B. 1401 is the Senate companion bill to H.B. 1315. (1-30-07: In Senate; re-referred to Commerce, Consumer Protection & Affordable Housing/Judiciary and Labor) S.B. 1425 is the Senate companion to H.B. 1339. (5-4-07: Enrolled to the Governor) S.B. 1660 is the Senate companion bill to H.B. 430. (2-7-07: In Senate; Commerce, Consumer Protection & Affordable Housing deferred the measure) S.B. 1704 is the Senate companion bill to H.B. 1627. (4-27-07: Enrolled to the Governor) S.B. 1806 is the Senate companion bill to H.B. 1833. (1-30-07: In Senate; referred to Commerce, Consumer Protection & Affordable Housing) IDAHO - ID State Legislature H.B. 45 amends existing law to revise licensure requirements for electrical and specialty electrical contractors; revises powers and duties of the Idaho Plumbing Board relating to licensure requirements; revises requirements for certificates of competency for heating, ventilation and air-conditioning contractors and specialty contractors; revises contractor registration requirements; revises requirements for a dealer's license. (Died in Committee) H.B. 187 amends and adds to existing law to provide for the registration, titling and operation of unconventional motor vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles, motorbikes, mopeds and motor-driven cycles. (Passed the House; died in Senate) S.B. 1114 amends existing law relating to fuel taxes; increases the distributor bond amount to not less than $1,500 nor more than $300,000. (Died in Committee) ILLINOIS - IL General Assembly H.B. 743 provides that all construction contracts, unless expressly excluded, shall be deemed to provide: (i) if a contractor has performed in accordance with the provisions of a construction contract and the billing has been approved by the owner or the owner's agent, the owner shall pay the amount due to the contractor pursuant to the billing not more than 10 calendar days after the approval. (5-2-07: In Senate; placed on calendar order of second reading, 5-3-07) H.B. 780 provides that each power of attorney for a fidelity and surety insurer issued to an agent that authorizes the agent to execute bonds may be recorded in the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office; provides that the power of attorney need only be filed once while it remains in effect. (5-10-07: In House; third reading, final action deadline extended to 5-18-07) H.B. 1071 concerns licensing of managers of community associations; requires a license holder to post a fidelity bond in an amount not less than all moneys of that association, and covering the license holder and all partners, officers and employees of the firm with whom the license holder is employed during the term of the bond as well as the association officers, directors and employees of each community association they service. (5-15-07: In Senate; placed on calendar order of second reading, 5-16-07) H.B. 1292 provides that the commission shall create requirements for licensure as an agent, broker or consultant engaged in the procurement or sale of retail electricity supply for a third party, which shall include all of the following criteria: (1) technical competence, (2) managerial competence, including criminal background checks and other indicia of honesty and fair-dealing, (3) financial responsibility, including the posting of an appropriate performance bond, and (4) annual reporting requirements. The license shall expire on April 30 of each year unless a renewal order is issued by the commission. The term of the renewal shall be until the following April 30 or earlier, as determined by the commission. (5-2-07: In Senate; do pass by Environment and Energy; placed on calendar order of second reading, 5-3-07) H.B. 1947 amends the Professional Boxing Act to provide for the regulation of martial arts and mixed martial arts matches and exhibitions. (5-15-07: In Senate; second reading; placed on calendar order of third reading, 5-16-07) H.B. 1985 amends the Retailers’ Occupation Tax Act, the Cigarette Tax Act, the Cigarette Use Tax Act and the Liquor Control Act of 1934; authorizes the Department of Revenue to waive bond requirements for certain licensees under these acts if the Department determines that the costs of administering and enforcing the bond requirements exceed the amount likely to be recovered from the bonds. (5-10-07: In House; third reading, final action deadline extended to 5-18-07) H.B. 3490 amends the Public Building Commission Act; authorizes the Commission to solicit and award design-build construction contracts. (5-10-07: In Senate; do pass as amended by State Government and Veterans Affairs; placed on calendar order of second reading, 5-15-07) S.B. 196 is the Senate companion bill to H.B. 1071. (3-20-07: In Senate; re-referred to Rules; added Chief Co-Sponsor) S.B. 378 creates the Public-Private Partnerships for Transportation Act.; provides that the Act is intended to promote public-private partnerships for transportation by authorizing the Department of Transportation and the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority to enter into public-private agreements for the development, operation and financing of transportation facilities. Grants to the Department and the Authority the necessary powers for development and financing. (3-30-07: In Senate; Rule 2-10, third reading deadline extended to 5-31-07) S.B. 633 amends the Public Building Commission Act; authorizes a commission to solicit and award design-build construction contracts. (2-28-07: In Senate; first reading, referred to Rules) S.B. 1366 is the Senate companion bill to H.B. 1292. (5-14-07: In House; amendment #2, Rules referred to Electric Utility Oversight Committee) S.B. 1511 amends the Public Construction Bond Act; authorizes the Capital Development Board to waive the requirement of a surety bond for a public construction contract if (i) the contractor is a small business enterprise, and (ii) the otherwise required bond amount plus other surety bond amounts waived by the Board from small business enterprises, with respect to projects that are not yet complete, does not exceed $ 2,000,000. (4-30-07: In House; assigned to Executive Committee) INDIANA - IN General Assembly H.B. 1570 eliminates the $20,000 surplus lines broker bond requirement. (2-26-07: In House; referred to Ways and Means; author/co-author change) H.B. 1657 provides that the security required for timber buyers and loggers shall be in the principal amount of $2,000 for an applicant who harvested timber valued at $5,000 or less during the immediately preceding year, and an additional $100 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof value of timber harvested during the preceding year. However, the surety bond may not be more than $20,000. In the case of an applicant not previously engaged in business as a logger, the amount of the bond shall be based on the estimated dollar value of timber expected to be harvested during the next succeeding year. (3-12-07: Passed the House; transmitted to Senate; committee report, amend do pass; reassigned to Tax and Fiscal Policy) NEW LAW – H.B. 1717 (signed by the Governor on 5-11-07; Eff. 7-1-07) transfers responsibility for the: (1) licensure of mortgage brokers; and (2) registration of mortgage loan originators from the Securities Commissioner to the Department of Financial Institutions; requires the Department to request a national criminal history background check through the State Police Department for all applicants for an initial license or registration after June 30, 2007; requires licensees to maintain a $50,000 bond. NEW LAW – H.B. 1835 (signed by the Governor on 5-11-07; Eff. upon passage) concerns racetrack gambling; licensees are required to post security. NEW LAW – S.B. 211 (signed by the Governor on 5-3-07; Eff. 7-1-07) increases the threshold at which bid, performance and payment bonds are required for state and local public works from $150,000 to $200,000 (amended in committee). NEW LAW – S.B. 506 (signed by the Governor on 5-8-07; Eff. 7-1-07) establishes the Private Investigator and Security Guard Licensing Board; replaces the bond requirement for private detectives with general liability insurance. NEW LAW – S.B. 526 (signed by the Governor on 5-2-07; Eff. 7-1-07) relates to higher education; requires post-secondary proprietary schools to maintain a bond. IOWA - IA Legislature General Assembly H.B. 15 requires licensed and registered child care facilities to identify how financial responsibility for injuries is addressed; may be addressed by either maintenance of liability insurance coverage or a surety bond that complies with reasonable minimum amounts identified in the rule. (1-16-07: Introduced; referred to Human Resources; subcommittee) H.B. 233 relates to the Construction Bidding Procedures Act; modifies procedures and requirements for letting public improvement contracts; the contractor awarded the contract shall not commence work until the contractor's performance and payment bond has been approved by the governmental entity. A governmental entity may delegate the authority to award a contract, to execute a contract, to authorize work to proceed under a contract, or to approve the contractor's performance and payment bond to an officer or employee of the governmental entity. (2-20-07: In House; referred to State Government Committee; sub-committee reassigned) H.B. 442 relates to requirements for trust fund deposits of prepayments for cemetery and funeral merchandise and funeral services; increases the bond to equal 95% of the payments received (currently 80%). (2-27-07: In House; referred to Commerce) H.B. 454 relates to the disposition of certain unclaimed property; provides that as a condition precedent to payment of any claim filed under this chapter, the treasurer of state may require that the claimant or owner of the unclaimed or abandoned property furnish the treasurer with a surety bond containing terms and provisions acceptable to the treasurer and issued by a corporate surety authorized to do business in this state or with such other form of indemnification and protection that is determined by the treasurer to be acceptable and sufficient to protect the treasurer and the state against any loss, liability or damage which may arise out of or result from the payment of the claim by the treasurer. The claimant or owner shall be responsible for all premiums, costs, fees or other expenses associated with any such surety bond or other form of indemnification and protection required pursuant to this subsection. (3-27-07: Amendment H-1104 adopted; substituted SF 202; in House; withdrawn) H.B. 540 relates to soil and water conservation district work projects supporting water protection practices; requires the posting of a performance bond for a contract involving a public improvement of $25,000 or more; however, the commissioners may waive the bond requirement if they estimate the cost of the project will not exceed the general competitive bid threshold of $100,000 for general construction bidding. (2-28-07: In House; referred to Agriculture) H.B. 810 requires the payment of local prevailing wage rates to persons working on public improvements for public bodies; provides penalties. (4-23-07: In House Appropriations, subcommittee) This is a very onerous bill, and SFAA is working to either kill or significantly amend the bill. H.B. 830 modifies procedures and requirements for letting public improvement contracts. (5-8-07: Sent to the Governor) H.B. 860 is similar to H.B. 540. (3-22-07: In House; referred to Environmental Protection; assigned to subcommittee) H.B. 897 establishes statewide licensure and certification of electricians and installers, providing for inspections, establishing fees and providing penalties. (5-8-07: Sent to the Governor) H.B. 908 relates to the licensing and regulation of plumbers and mechanical professionals. (4-28-07: Passed the House and Senate) S.B. 38 relates to the regulation of credit unions; requires the superintendent shall post a $100,000 bond to ensure the faithful performance of the employees of the Credit Union Division. (1-24-07: In Senate; referred to subcommittee) NEW LAW – S.B. 202 (signed by the Governor on 4-4-07) is the Senate companion to H.B. 454. S.B. 317 requires in-state home improvement contractors to obtain surety performance bonds. (3-5-07: In Senate; referred to Labor and Business Relations; assigned to subcommittee) Our lobbyist advises that this bill probably will not go anywhere. S.B. 370 relates to the regulation of credit unions; adds a new section that would require the superintendent to post a $100,000 bond; also requires a state credit union to maintain a fidelity bond. (3-14-07: In Senate; referred to Ways and Means; assigned to subcommittee) S.B. 493 relates to plans and financial assurance requirements for certain sanitary landfill projects; provides that a utility under this subsection may demonstrate financial assurance through the use of a secured trust fund, a cash or surety bond, a corporate financial test as provided by the department, the obtaining of an irrevocable letter of credit, or an alternative method as provided by the department. (4-5-07: In House; Committee report recommending passage) S.B. 557 is similar to S.B. 370. (4-24-07: Passed the House) S.B. 559 relates to cemetery and funeral merchandise, funeral services, and cemeteries, and providing fees and penalties; provides that if a purchase agreement is funded by a surety bond, the purchaser shall receive a notice from the surety company evidencing coverage under the bond, the name of the purchaser or beneficiary, and the amount of coverage. If the purchase agreement is paid with a single payment, the purchaser shall receive notice of the surety bond within 60 days of making the payment. If the purchase agreement is being paid with multiple, periodic payments, the purchaser shall receive notice of the surety bond within 60 days of making the last payment. Compliance with this notice requirement does not require a seller to purchase individual surety bonds for each purchaser and beneficiary. A seller may file a single bond with the commissioner. (4-26-07: Passed the House and Senate) KANSAS - KS State Legislature NEW LAW – H.B. 2363 (signed by the Governor on 5-11-07; Eff. 7-1-07) relates to conservators; provides that the surety shall not be released until a final accounting has been filed, allowed and settled. H.B. 2531 concerns the Pharmacy Act; provides that the Board, by rule and regulation, shall establish standards and requirements for the issuance and maintenance of a wholesale distributor registration, including, but not limited to, requirements regarding the application and renewal fee, surety bond, etc. (5-4-07: In House; remains in Conference Committee) NEW LAW – S.B. 333 (signed by the Governor on 4-20-07; Eff. 7-1-07) concerns public building construction contracts; enacts the Kansas Fairness in Public Building Construction Contract Act; provides that an owner, contractor or subcontractor may withhold no more than 10% (currently 5%) retainage from the amount of any undisputed payment due. KENTUCKY - KY State Legislature NEW LAW – H.B. 94 (signed by the Governor on 3-23-07; Acts Ch. 83) provides that only contractors certified by the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet shall be authorized to conduct the decontamination services for inhabitable properties; contractors must post a $500,000 surety bond or other financial assurance. NEW LAW – H.B. 490 (signed by the Governor on 4-5-07; Acts Ch. 136) relates to the construction industry; relates to contracts; defines terms relating to construction contracts; specifies certain provisions that make a construction contract null, void and unenforceable; establishes time limits for payments to contractor and subcontractor; permits a contractor to recover costs resulting from delay if delay was caused by the contracting entity; caps retainage at 10% until 50% of the project is completed and 5% on remainder.) LOUISIANA - LA State Legislature H.B. 49 provides for the elimination of the tax on surplus lines, and for the reduction of the tax on fire, casualty and certain miscellaneous insurance policies, surety and fidelity included. Proposed law provides that the tax shall be reduced to $50 when the gross annual premiums are $6,000 or less, and $300 for each additional $10,000, or fraction thereof, of gross annual premiums. Proposed law deletes certain obsolete provisions dealing with the tax on fire, marine, transportation, casualty, surety or other insurance. (4-30-07: In House; read by title, under the rules, referred to Ways and Means) H.B. 348 provides for changes to boxing and wrestling provisions; allows for certified check as a deposit in lieu of the bond. (4-30-07: In House; read by title, under the rules, referred to Commerce) H.B. 417 relates to motor fuel products; provides that for a supplier, permissive supplier or terminal operator license, the amount of the bond shall be a minimum of $1 million (currently $2 million) or an amount equal to three months tax liability, whichever is greater, and only one surety bond will be required for a supplier that is also a terminal operator. (5-7-07: In Senate; rules suspended, read first and second time by title, referred to Revenue and Fiscal Affairs) H.B. 544 provides for an additional premium tax of 3 1/2 percent of the gross annual premium receipts on any insurer engaged in the business of issuing policies, contracts or other forms of obligations covering the risk of... surety, fidelity. This tax shall be paid when paying annual license taxes, and the Commissioner of Insurance shall refuse to issue a license to any insurer failing or refusing to pay this additional tax. (4-30-07: In House; read by title, under the rules, and referred to Insurance) H.B. 630 requires pet food manufacturers to be registered and to post a $1,000 bond. (4-30-07: In House; read by title, under the rules, and referred to Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture and Rural Development) H.B. 875 provides that each scholarship granting organization shall demonstrate financial viability, if they are to receive donations of $50,000 or more during the school year, by filing a bond or financial information that demonstrates their financial viability. (4-30-07: In House; read by title, under the rules, and referred to Ways and Means) S.B. 42 repeals provisions requiring the custodian of notarial records to maintain a list of notaries public in Orleans Parish, and repeals penalties. (5-15-07: In House; read by title, lies over under the rules) S.B. 280 increases the contract limit for DOT and Development contracts which are subject to certain advertising and bid requirements from $250,000 to $500,000; increases from $25,000 to $50,000 contracts for which advertisement is optional; provides for electronic bidding. (5-15-07: In Senate; read by title, engrossed and passed to third reading) MAINE - ME State Legislature H.B. 1160 allows tenants to purchase surety bonds in lieu of some or all of a required security deposit for the purpose of assisting tenants who have insufficient resources to provide a security deposit for a residential dwelling unit; the amount of the surety bond shall not exceed two months’ rent. (3-22-07: In House; Committee on Legal and Veterans Affairs; sent for concurrence; in Senate; under suspension of the Rules, referred to Committee on Legal and Veterans Affairs; in concurrence) S.B. 134 eliminates the requirement that a personal representative of a decedent's taxable estate obtain a bond to secure the payment of estate taxes if the Judge of Probate finds that any estate tax due is not secured by the State's estate tax lien upon real estate in the decedent's estate, since all property of a decedent of the State is already charged with a lien benefiting the State for all taxes, interest or penalties that are or may become due regardless of whether the property is real or otherwise. (5-15-07: In House; passed to be enacted; sent for concurrence) MARYLAND - MD General Assembly H.B. 989 alters limitations on lending, guarantees and equity participation financing by the Maryland Small Business Development Financing Authority in specified transactions; alters the maximum amount of a loan that the Authority may make using the Contract Financing Fund; alters the maximum amount of a loan guarantee that the Authority may make using the Guaranty Fund; provides that subject to restrictions, the Authority, on application, may guarantee any surety up to the lesser of 90% or $5,000,000 of it losses incurred under a bid bond, a payment bond or a performance bond on any contract financed by the federal government or a state government, a local government, a private entity or a utility regulated by the Public Service Commission. (3-30-07: In Senate; favorable with amendments; report by Finance; enrolled 4-2-07) NEW LAW – H.B. 1030 (approved by the Governor on 5-8-07; Ch. 353) alters the requirements for obtaining a wholesale distributor’s permit to include an inspection and the posting of a bond; requires a pedigree for prescription drugs or devices distributed in the state. (S.B. 759 also passed) S.B. 318 is the Senate companion to H.B. 989. (4-2-07: In House; favorable report by Economic Matters) S.B. 541 authorizes video lottery gaming on specified vessels at dock or underway in state waterways under specified conditions; establishes a State Commission on Vessel Gaming; provides that each member of the Commission shall be covered by a surety bond provided by the Commission in the form and amount required by law; provides that applicants for a license to operate a gaming vessel shall execute a $200,000 surety bond to be given to the state to guarantee the licensee faithfully makes the payments, keeps books and records, makes reports, and conducts gaming on the licensee's gaming vessel in accordance with this title and regulations adopted by the Commission. (2-26-07: In Senate; referred to Budget and Taxation; hearing on 3-6-07) S.B. 555 authorizes a county or municipal corporation to require an applicant for a permit to build a rubble landfill facility to file a surety bond, with specified requirements, with the local governing body in addition to any state bonding requirements. (3-7-07: In Senate; unfavorable report by Education, Health and Environmental Affairs) S.B. 950 requires the State Lottery Commission to regulate the operation of specified video lottery terminals; establishes a Purse Dedication Account under the authority of the State Racing Commission; establishes an Education Trust Fund; requires the Governor to provide funding for public school construction from the Education Trust Fund; applicants are required to file a bond. (3-2-07: In Senate; re-referred to Budget and Taxation; hearing on 3-6-07) MASSACHUSETTS - MA General Court H.B. 248 relates to regulating the resale of tickets; requires applicants to file a $2,000 bond. (1-11-07: In House; referred to Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure; in Senate, concurred) H.B. 334 establishes standards for consumer credit counseling. For every applicant, the principal amount of the bond shall be the greater of (A) forty thousand dollars, or (B) twice the amount of the highest total payments received in connection with the applicant's debt adjustment activity in any month during the preceding 12 months ending March 31st of each year. (1-10-07: In House; referred to Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure) H.B. 358 authorizes low stakes card games at pari mutuel facilities; the holder of a card room license shall maintain a $50,000 bond. (1-10-07: In House; referred to Economic Development and Emerging Technologies) H.B. 931 requires travel agents to file a $250,000 bond. (1-10-07: In House; referred to Financial Services) H.B. 1052 relates to viatical settlements; requires providers and brokers to demonstrate evidence of financial responsibility through either a surety bond or a deposit of cash, CDs, or securities or any combination thereof in the amount of $250,000. (1-10-07: In House; referred to Financial Services) H.B. 1453 provides for the improvement of court facilities; prior to execution of a design-build contract, offeror shall furnish a performance and payment bond, each in the sum of the contract price. (1-10-07: In House; referred to Judiciary) H.B. 1605 grants authority over notaries public to the Secretary of State. (1-10-07: In House; referred to Judiciary) H.B. 1633 relates to the Uniform Probate Code; pertains to bonds without sureties, bonds with sureties and demand for sureties by an interested person; terms and conditions. (1-10-07: In House; referred to Judiciary) H.B. 1652 is similar to H.B. 1633. (1-10-07: In House; referred to Judiciary) H.B. 1730 relates to mechanics’ liens. (1-10-07: In House; referred to Judiciary) H.B. 1789 promotes fairness in private construction contracts; provides that a contractor shall pay its subcontractors all undisputed amounts due within 7 business days of receipt of payment from the owner, including payment of retainage if retainage is released by the owner, if the subcontractor has provided a timely, properly completed request for payment to the contractor. A subcontractor's timely and properly completed request for payment to a contractor shall be included in the contractor's next requisition to the owner unless the contractor, within a reasonable time stated in the contract, issues a written statement detailing the amounts that will not be included in the requisition and the reasons therefor. Failure by an owner or a contractor to issue a written order for changes in the work performed at the direction of the owner or contractor shall not be a reason to disapprove a request for payment for work performed on said changes. (1-10-07: In House; referred to Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture) H.B. 3181 relates to interest on retainage; adds the following language: At the time of the first payment to the contractor, the awarding authority shall establish an escrow account in a financial institution licensed to do business in the Commonwealth. The account shall be set up to maximize the return, which is to accumulate. The awarding authority shall then pay into such account each portion of each requisition that represents retainage deducted from the amount due the contractor for periodic payment. The payment of such retainage into the escrow account shall be made simultaneously with the payments to the contractor for periodic requisitions. The proceeds of the escrow account including accumulated interest shall be payable to the contractor in accordance with the provisions of this section. (1-10-07: In House; referred to State Administration and Regulatory Oversight) S.B. 177 relates to the guaranty fund for home improvement contractors; defines claimant. (1-10-07: In Senate; referred to Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure; In House, concurred) S.B. 187 relates to second hand dealers; requires licensees to file a $300 bond. (1-10-07: In Senate; referred to Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure; In House, concurred) S.B. 206 establishes standards for consumer credit counseling; each license application shall be accompanied by evidence of either a $100,000 bond or insurance coverage. (1-10-07: In Senate; referred to Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure; In House, concurred) S.B. 220 relates to the registration of irrigation contractors. Before being examined for an original business permit or renewal of a business permit, applicants are required to provide proof of liability and workers compensation policies, surety bond and irrevocable letter of credit. (1-10-07: In Senate; referred to Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure; In House, concurred) S.B. 246 relates to home service contracts. (1-10-07: In Senate; referred to Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure; In House, concurred) S.B. 843 relates to the Uniform Probate Code (text not yet available). (1-10-07: In Senate; referred to Judiciary; In House, concurred) S.B. 1033 regulates notaries public to protect consumers and provide anti-fraud protections. (1-10-07: In Senate; referred to Judiciary; In House, concurred) S.B. 1899 relates to interest on retainage. (1-10-07: In Senate; referred to State Administration and Regulatory Oversight; In House, concurred) S.B. 2020 relates to co-sureties. (1-10-07: In Senate; referred to Transportation; In House, concurred) MICHIGAN - MI State Legislature S.B. 169 requires check cashing businesses to be licensed and bonded; provides that each licensee shall furnish a $5,000 bond for each location. (2-6-07: In Senate; referred to Banking and Financial Institutions). MINNESOTA - MN State Legislature H.B. 413 relates to outdoor sports equipment titling; requires applicant to file a bond in an amount equal to 1 1/2 times the value of the outdoor sport equipment. (5-15-07: In House; Committee reported do pass as amended; second reading) H.B. 675 relates to institutions of higher education retaining student records; provides that an alternative method of compliance must be established if the school ceases to exist, and a continuous $20,000 bond must be filed if the school has no binding agreement for preserving student records. (2-15-07: In House; referred to Higher Education and Work Force Development Policy and Finance Division) H.B. 851 modifies mortgage licensing requirements; provides that no person shall act as a residential mortgage originator, or make residential mortgage loans, without obtaining a license; licensees must maintain a minimum net worth of $250,000 or a surety bond or irrevocable letter of credit in the amount of $100,000. (2-19-07: In House; referred to Higher Education and Work Force Development Policy and Finance Division) H.B. 1208 relates to construction codes; recodifies and modifies construction codes and licensing provisions; no person shall act as a dealer in manufactured homes, new or used, without a license, surety bond and liability insurance. (5-15-07: In House; Committee reported do pass as amended; second reading) H.B. 1409 increases the bond requirement for well contractors from $10,000 to $25,000. (5 4-07: In Senate; Committee report, substitute for SB 1229; second reading) H.B. 1443 relates to employment; changes certain requirements concerning contractors; modifies prevailing wage provisions; imposes penalties. (3-16-07: In House; Division action, to pass as amended and return to Commerce and Labor) H.B. 1515 regulates the business of credit counseling and debt management services; provides that a registration application must be accompanied by a bond of not less than $5,000 or other amount determined by the commissioner. (3-23-07: In House; Committee report, to pass as amended and re-refer to Finance; author added; referred by chair to Energy Finance and Policy Division) H.B. 1748 relates to residential mortgage lending; modifies licensing and education requirements. (3-23-07: In House; Committee report, to pass as amended and re-refer to Finance; referred by chair to Energy Finance and Policy Division) H.B. 1963 relates to scholarship-granting organizations; to demonstrate its financial viability, if they are to receive donations of $50,000 or more during the school year, by filing a surety bond in an amount equal to the aggregate amount of contributions expected to be received. (4-24-07: In House; referred to Taxes; author added) H.B. 2305 is similar to H.B. 851. (3-22-07: In House; first reading, referred to Finance; referred by chair to Energy Finance and Policy Division) S.B. 575 is the Senate companion to H.B. 675. (2-5-07: In Senate; first reading, referred to Finance) S.B. 797 is similar to H.B. 851. (3-8-07: In Senate; withdrawn, re-referred to Finance) S.B. 998 is similar to H.B. 1208. (5-15-07: In Senate; Committee report, to pass as amended and re-refer to Business, Industry and Jobs) S.B. 1229 is similar to H.B. 1409. (5-4-07: In Senate; HB 1409 substituted on general orders) S.B. 1532 is similar to H.B. 1515. (4-17-07: In Senate; Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee reported to pass as amended; second reading) S.B. 1547 is similar to H.B. 1748. (3-22-07: In Senate; Committee report, to pass as amended and re-refer to Judiciary) S.B. 1694 is similar to H.B. 1963. (4-16-07: In Senate; referred to Taxes; author added) S.B. 1848 is similar to H.B. 1443. (3-14-07: In Senate; first reading, referred to Business, Industry and Jobs) S.B. 1989 is similar to H.B. 675. (3-21-07: In Senate; second reading) S.B. 2089 changes the entity where bonds for gas, HVAC, fuel burning or refrigeration contractors are filed from the Commissioner of Administration to the Commissioner of Labor and Industry. (5-8-07: Governor’s action veto Ch. 55 on 5-7-07; In Senate; veto message laid on table) NEW LAW – S.B. 2096 (Secretary of State Chapter 57 on 5-8-07) provides that residential mortgage originators shall be licensed and post a $50,000 bond or letter of credit. S.B. 2169 provides for the licensing or registration of private postsecondary educational institutions; includes a bond requirement. (3-27-07: In Senate; first reading, referred to Higher Education) MISSISSIPPI - MS State Legislature NEW LAW – S.B. 2350 (approved by the Governor on 4-21-07; Ch. 581; Eff. 7-1-07) amends the Mortgage Consumer Protection Law; extends the repealer and makes various amendments; provides that mortgage brokers shall file a $25,000 bond; mortgage lenders shall file a $150,000 bond; however, any licensed company required to file a $50,000 bond before July 1, 2007, shall not be required to increase its bond until the 2007 license year renewal. NEW LAW – S.B. 2647 (approved by the Governor on 3-22-07; Eff. 7-1-07) provides that all notary bonds shall be conditioned and approved by the Secretary of State.