Provides for access to criminal history records and identification files by the office of technology services. (8/1/22) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SG RV See Note)
Impact
The legislation has notable implications for the state's management of criminal history records, streamlining the process and broadening access for essential regulatory agencies. This change aims to improve the efficiency of background checks, thereby enhancing the oversight of state professionals. By integrating these records with FBI databases, SB157 facilitates a more cohesive approach to monitoring criminal history, both at the state and federal levels.
Summary
Senate Bill No. 157, introduced by Senator Milligan, amends and reenacts certain provisions related to criminal history records and identification files in Louisiana. The bill facilitates greater access for specific state agencies, such as the Louisiana Department of Health and the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information, to criminal history data, which is crucial for various applications including licensure reviews for professionals like lawyers and health service providers. Furthermore, it introduces the ability for the Louisiana Bureau to submit fingerprints to the FBI for retention in a system that supports ongoing criminal background checks through 'rap back' notifications.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB157 appears to be supportive among state administration personnel and law enforcement agencies, who see the potential for improved safety and accountability. However, there could be concerns among privacy advocates regarding how this increased access might affect individual rights and the confidentiality of criminal records. While the bill seeks to enhance procedural efficiency, the balance between public safety and privacy remains a pertinent topic.
Contention
Discussion around SB157 may center on fears pertaining to the overreach of state oversight into personal records, as well as the potential implications for individuals whose histories are revealed as a result of more expansive data sharing. Opposition may argue that while the intentions are to strengthen regulatory practices, the mechanisms implemented must be carefully crafted to ensure protections against misuse and to maintain the integrity of personal information.
Provides relative to criminal history records checks for agencies with access to federal tax information, criminal history record information, or state issued REAL ID information (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Provides relative to criminal history record information obtained by the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. (8/1/19) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)
Authorizes certain nonprofit organizations to obtain criminal history record and identification files for applicants seeking to serve in certain programs
Provides for access to criminal history information in civil cases of domestic abuse, dating violence, human trafficking, and sexual assault. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.