What does the term 'Department' refer to in the Security Guard Act?

The term 'Department' in the context of the Security Guard Act refers specifically to the Department of State. This is significant because the Department of State is the regulatory authority that oversees the licensing and regulation of security guards, alarm installers, and related security professions in New York. By designating the Department of State, the legislation provides clarity on which governmental body is responsible for enforcing the regulations set forth in the Security Guard Act. The role of the Department of State includes processing applications for security guard licenses, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with the established laws and standards. Understanding this context is essential for anyone involved in security operations, as it directly affects how they interact with licensing and regulatory standards in the industry.