What determines the controlling law for the use of force for a PSO?

The controlling law for the use of force for a Private Security Officer (PSO) is primarily determined by the state in which the officer operates. This is because state laws dictate the legal standards and regulations surrounding the use of force, including the level of force that is permissible in various situations. Each state has its own laws governing self-defense, the defense of others, and the overall authority of private security personnel.

While country-wide regulations or principles may influence how force is applied in a broader context, it is ultimately the state laws that provide the specific legal framework that PSOs must follow. Local laws, such as those enacted by cities or municipalities, can also exist, but they typically operate within the larger framework established at the state level. Similarly, specific facility rules are often created to ensure safety and operational procedures, but they do not supersede the law of the state. Thus, the state is the key determinant in establishing the legal parameters for the use of force by PSOs.