Connecticut House Bill HB05063

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/19
• Refer: 1/10/19

Caption

An Act Concerning Background Checks For Persons Who Provide Care In The Homes Of Elderly Persons.

Impact

The implementation of HB 05063 is designed to strengthen protections for elderly residents by establishing a framework for assessing the suitability of those who are employed to care for them. By requiring thorough background checks, the bill is poised to reduce the risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation that may arise when unvetted individuals are given access to the homes of seniors. This legislative measure aligns with broader efforts to improve the standard of care and promote the well-being of frail and elderly individuals in the community.

Summary

House Bill 05063 aims to enhance the safety of elderly individuals by mandating background checks for persons providing care in their homes. Specifically, the bill requires both state and national background checks to be conducted on caregivers, ensuring that individuals with criminal convictions do not have access to vulnerable elderly populations. Additionally, the bill mandates disclosure of any accelerated rehabilitation granted in lieu of a criminal conviction, providing further transparency regarding the caregiver's background.

Contention

While the bill has gained support from various advocacy groups focused on senior safety and welfare, concerns have been raised regarding the potential implications for caregiver employment. Critics argue that the requirements could disqualify otherwise capable individuals due to past criminal records that may not be indicative of their current character or ability to provide care. Thus, the balance between ensuring safety for elderly individuals and enabling fair opportunities for caregivers is a notable point of contention within discussions surrounding this legislation.