Frequently Asked Questions for Form Series 3200 - Public Safety Solicitation

The answers to our Frequently Asked Questions are provided for informational purposes and are not intended to provide legal advice or to substitute for the advice of an attorney. If you have specific legal questions, consult your attorney.

Solicitation Hotline 1 (800) 648-9642

1. How do I register as a public safety organization, independent promoter, or public safety publication?

You register by filing a registration statement with the Secretary of State and paying the required $250.00 filing fee.

2. How do I register as a solicitor for a public safety organization, independent promoter, or public safety publication.

You register by filing a registration statement with the Secretary of State, and paying the required $500.00 filing fee.

3. Is an organization or solicitor considered "legitimate" because they are registered with the Secretary of State?

The Secretary of State is the filing agency for the documents required by the Public Safety Solicitation Act ("Act"). Registration with the Secretary of State does not imply approval or endorsement of the organization or its solicitor.

4. What information can I obtain concerning a public safety entity or its solicitor?

The Registrations Unit maintains a telephone hotline that is dedicated exclusively to handling solicitation matters. An individual can obtain information concerning a public safety organization, independent promoter, public safety publication, or solicitor that has filed a registration statement with the Secretary of State.

5. Does the Secretary of State investigate violations of the Act?

As stated above, the Secretary of State is the filing agency for documents required by the Act. The Attorney General is charged with enforcement of the registration requirements and/or violations of the Act. A person that has been injured by a public safety entity or solicitor in an action that relates to a solicitation, may file a complaint with the Consumer Protection Division of the Attorney General's Office. In addition, an alleged violation can be reported to the Secretary of State by calling the solicitation hotline at 1 (800) 648-9642. Information received on the hotline will be forwarded to the Attorney General's Office.