Delaware 2023-2024 Regular Session

Delaware House Bill HB304

Introduced
3/21/24  
Engrossed
3/26/24  
Introduced
3/21/24  
Engrossed
3/26/24  
Enrolled
6/27/24  
Refer
3/26/24  
Passed
8/29/24  
Enrolled
6/27/24  

Caption

An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Department Of Technology And Information And Criminal Background Checks.

Impact

The implications of this legislation are significant as it establishes a clear protocol for evaluating the qualifications of individuals accessing sensitive Department systems and data. By requiring comprehensive criminal background checks and enabling the Department to make independent decisions based on this information, the bill aims to enhance security and integrity in the recruitment and engagement of personnel. Moreover, it serves as a safeguard against potential risks associated with employing individuals who may pose a security threat due to past criminal activities.

Summary

House Bill 304 seeks to amend Title 29 of the Delaware Code, focusing specifically on the Department of Technology and Information and instituting mandatory criminal background checks for certain individuals. Under the provisions of the bill, individuals who have received a conditional offer of employment with the Department, as well as contractors or third parties needing access to Department systems, will be required to submit to these background checks. This includes providing fingerprints and necessary information for a thorough check of both state and federal criminal histories.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 304 appears to be supportive, particularly among lawmakers who recognize the necessity of ensuring the safety and credibility of individuals involved with state technology systems. Stakeholders emphasize that such measures are vital for protecting public trust and maintaining secure operations within the Department. However, there may be concerns regarding the thoroughness of the background check process and its implications for civil rights, ensuring that the checks do not unfairly disadvantage qualified candidates.

Contention

Notably, some points of contention may arise regarding the scope of the criminal background checks and the potential for disqualification based on past convictions. Critics may argue that stringent measures might unjustly exclude individuals who have rehabilitated from past criminal acts. Thus, while the intent of enhancing security is widely accepted, the actual implementation could spark debates about balancing safety with fair employment practices.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

DE HB19

An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Department Of Finance And Criminal Background Checks.

DE HB178

An Act To Amend Title 14 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Department Of Education And Criminal Background Checks.

DE HB47

An Act To Amend Title 31 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Background Checks.

DE HB20

An Act To Amend Title 19 Of The Delaware Code Related To Criminal Background Checks For Department Of Labor Employees, Contractors, And Subcontractors With Access To Confidential Or Sensitive Information.

DE SB2

An Act To Amend Title 11, Title 24, And Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Deadly Weapons.

DE SB67

An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Background Check Center.

DE HB141

An Act To Amend Titles 11 And 15 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Criminal History Background Checks For Candidates For State And County Public Office.

DE HB110

An Act To Amend Title 4 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Delaware Marijuana Control Act.

DE HB181

An Act To Amend Title 31 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Background Checks For Child-serving Entities And Other Organizations.

DE HB334

An Act To Amend Titles 4 And 30 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Marijuana.

Similar Bills

IL HB4501

CHILD CARE-BACKGROUND CHECK

MN SF4228

Prospective worker platforms to initiate background studies authorization

MN HF4441

Prospective worker platforms allowed to initiate background studies.

DE HB19

An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Department Of Finance And Criminal Background Checks.

DE HB178

An Act To Amend Title 14 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Department Of Education And Criminal Background Checks.

DE HB20

An Act To Amend Title 19 Of The Delaware Code Related To Criminal Background Checks For Department Of Labor Employees, Contractors, And Subcontractors With Access To Confidential Or Sensitive Information.

ME LD1157

An Act to Amend the Laws Relating to the State's Background Check Center

CA AB2704

In-home supportive services: criminal background checks.