A bill to amend the National Child Protection Act of 1993 to ensure that businesses and organizations that work with vulnerable populations are able to request background checks for their contractors who work with those populations, as well as for individuals that the businesses or organizations license or certify to provide care for those populations.
Impact
The implications of SB5172 on state laws primarily pertain to the operational requirements for businesses and organizations operating in sectors that care for vulnerable individuals. With this amendment, organizations such as childcare facilities, healthcare providers, and social services will bear the responsibility of implementing comprehensive background checks, which could lead to an elevation in the standards of care. This legislative move is anticipated to foster a safer environment for vulnerable populations, addressing longstanding concerns about their protection and welfare.
Summary
SB5172 aims to amend the National Child Protection Act of 1993 to broaden the scope of background checks for businesses and organizations working with vulnerable populations. The bill enables these groups to request background checks not only for employees but also for contractors, as well as individuals they license or certify. This change reflects a significant step towards enhancing the safety protocols for those who engage with vulnerable groups, including children and individuals with disabilities. By extending these requirements, the bill seeks to ensure that individuals in positions of care have been thoroughly vetted, thereby increasing protection for at-risk populations.
Contention
While the intentions behind SB5172 are generally viewed positively in terms of protecting vulnerable populations, there are potential points of contention regarding the implementation and scope of the background checks. Concerns may arise about the administrative burden placed on smaller organizations and the potential for these checks to delay the hiring processes. Additionally, the parameters for what constitutes a 'qualified entity' and the nature of the checks required could lead to debates regarding privacy rights and the extent of governmental regulation in private enterprise.
To amend the National Child Protection Act of 1993 to ensure that businesses and organizations that work with vulnerable populations are able to request background checks for their contractors who work with those populations, as well as for individuals that the businesses or organizations license or certify to provide care for those populations.
Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Work With The National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration And Other Experts To Conduct A Study On The Population Status Of Coral Reef Herbivores Around The Island Of Oahu And Develop Effective Policies For Substantially Increasing Those Populations Within A Decade.
Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Work With The National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration And Other Experts To Conduct A Study On The Population Status Of Coral Reef Herbivores Around The Island Of Oahu And Develop Effective Policies For Substantially Increasing Those Populations Within A Decade.