Background Check Modifications
This legislation will amend current laws related to the handling of background information, classifying certain details derived from these background checks as protected records under the Government Records Access and Management Act. By doing so, the bill limits the sharing and usage of such background check information to ensure privacy. Furthermore, individuals who fail to comply with these background check mandates could face penalties, specifically a class C misdemeanor for non-compliance.
Senate Bill 110, titled Background Check Modifications, establishes requirements for background checks for individuals who have direct contact with children. The bill mandates that employees, independent contractors, and volunteers must obtain a background check every 60 months, unless otherwise indicated by state or federal law. Additionally, it requires organizations to perform background checks before engaging individuals in roles involving direct contact with minors, aiming to enhance the safety of children in various settings.
Notable points of contention related to this bill may include concerns regarding the balance between child safety and individual privacy rights. Some stakeholders may argue against the frequency of checks, highlighting the potential burden on organizations that engage with children. The classification of background check details as protected information could also lead to debates over transparency versus confidentiality, especially concerning public accessibility to these records.