While we agree whole heartedly with the concept of locksmiths being required to have a valid license to operate within the Commonwealth of Virginia, we do take exception with the way this is playing out.  We are in favor of the requirements of finger printing and backround checks, but that is where our support ends.                                                                                                                                                 We feel that anyone who participates in providing locksmith services of any kind should be required to have a license if he/she advertises, provides or implies these services including hardware, home improvement, maintenance, etc..   This includes offering rekeying, master keying, keying alike, repair, replacement of parts,etc.                                                                                                                                    We feel that there should be temporary licensing granted for apprenticeships.                                     We feel that anyone who practices the profession of locksmithing should be certified by an accredited school, not just through ALOA.  A list of accedited schools should be posted for referance.                                                                                                                                                                As far as continuing education goes; any locksmith who is actively working in the industry has no choice but to keep abreast of the improvements, upgrades and new products if he/she wants to stay in business.  If classes are offered, they need to be offered by knowledgable and qualified teachers.  In many instances this would be a representative from a manufacturer.  If the Commonwealth would like to provide these in various locations throughout Virginia, that would be good.                                We in southwest Virginia operate in a very different climate than those in Northern Va. and Tidewater and we want to be sure that all who participate in locksmithing are treated equally  and that the public is protected and well served.