The Electronic Security Association (ESA) and Massachusetts Systems Contractors Association (MSCA) issued responses to the Massachusetts Attorney General’s ruling on Wednesday ruling that states Comcast does not need a license or permit for its security work.
Both the MSCA and ESA disagree with the ruling.
ESA President Marshall Marinace issued the following statement on Friday: “We are aware of this. ESA is an advocate for licensing. Licensing encourages a high level of professionalism and continuing education for industry owners and employees; licensing protects consumers from unethical and perhaps criminal elements abusing citizens’ trust in gaining access to homes and businesses.
“In addition, provisions in licensing laws often assist the law enforcement and fire prevention community,” Marinace’s statement continues. “ESA supports efforts at the state level to work with state regulators and legislators and other industries to support passage of state licensing legislation to protect the business and professionalism of our industry.
The majority of our members install wireless systems. Many of our members that install similar security systems and technology are also in favor of licensing for many of the reasons above and to elevate the professional standard within our industry.
“ESA is concerned with the precedent that this ruling sets as the majority of our members install wireless systems,” the statement continues. “Many of our members that install similar security systems and technology are also in favor of licensing for many of the reasons above and to elevate the professional standard within our industry.”
The Attorney General’s ruling states Comcast’s Xfinity system “does not constitute a security system” and the company is free to operate without a license or a permit. Back in 2012, a cease and desist order was issued to Comcast in Andover, Mass., and Amesbury after the Electrical Board ruled in favor of two electrical inspectors. Comcast appealed the lawsuit, and the Attorney General overturned the decision on Wednesday.
The MSCA went as far as to call the ruling “shocking” in a statement released Thursday night.
“While this is the end of the Superior Court Case, it is by no means the end of the issue,” the MSCA said in a press release attributed to president Wells Sampson and legislative chair David Wescott.
