Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF4441

Introduced
2/29/24  

Caption

Prospective worker platforms allowed to initiate background studies.

Impact

If enacted, HF4441 affects various existing statutes related to the licensing and operations of human services agencies. By amending sections of Minnesota Statutes, the bill facilitates a new approach where not only licensed professionals but also technology-driven platforms can play a role in the hiring process for direct care staff. This shift is expected to enhance the availability of personnel while ensuring that all individuals meet necessary safety and competency standards prior to being placed in sensitive care roles.

Summary

House File 4441 (HF4441) introduces significant changes to the human services licensing framework in Minnesota. It permits prospective worker platforms—entities that connect individuals to direct care services—to initiate background studies for potential employees. This bill arises from ongoing concerns regarding safety and adequate staffing in sectors providing services to vulnerable populations, including children, individuals with disabilities, and the elderly. By allowing non-traditional agencies to conduct these checks, HF4441 aims to streamline the employment process within these critical areas of human services.

Contention

The bill has generated debate among stakeholders regarding the effectiveness and safety implications of allowing worker platforms to manage background studies. Proponents argue that this modernization will address workforce shortages and make the hiring process more efficient. However, opponents express concerns about the adequacy of oversight and the potential risks associated with using technology platforms for critical background checks. Critics worry that the personalized assessment of candidates may be compromised, underscoring the importance of maintaining strict standards when hiring for positions involving direct care.

Companion Bills

MN SF4228

Similar To Prospective worker platforms to initiate background studies authorization

Previously Filed As

MN SF4228

Prospective worker platforms to initiate background studies authorization

MN HF2900

Child care, child safety and permanency, child support, economic assistance, deep poverty, housing and homelessness, behavioral health, medical education and research cost account, MinnesotaCare, Tribal Elder Office, background studies, and licensing governing provisions modified; and money appropriated.

MN HF2712

Procedure for sanctions modified, Department of Human Services background studies modified, applications and application process modified, license fees modified, commissioner access to recipient medical records modified, notice requirements for monetary recovery and sanctions modified, administrative reconsideration process modified, licensing data modified, email address privacy modified, and prone restraints in licensed or certified facilities prohibited.

MN HF4393

Department of Human Services Office of Inspector General policy bill; human services licensing, background studies, provider notification, substance use disorder medication, and electronic signature provisions modified.

MN HF1084

Criminal records sealing upon granting a pardon extraordinary authorized, and conforming changes made in human services background studies for expungement orders.

MN HF753

Individuals subject to human services background studies with expunged criminal records disqualification prohibited.

MN HF1172

Health and human services background study consideration of juvenile court records modified, disqualification periods modified, set aside allowed for disqualification based on conduct or convictions in individual's juvenile record, electronic background check reconsideration request process created, and money appropriated.

MN SF395

Disqualification prohibition of individuals subject to human services background studies with expunged criminal records

MN SF2819

Department of Human Services policy provisions modification

MN SF2776

Department of Human services policy bill sections on background studies, Department of Corrections reconsiderations, kickback crimes, and appeals division worker protections

Similar Bills

MN SF4228

Prospective worker platforms to initiate background studies authorization

MN HF753

Individuals subject to human services background studies with expunged criminal records disqualification prohibited.

MN SF395

Disqualification prohibition of individuals subject to human services background studies with expunged criminal records

MN SF3137

Cross-references correction in the definition of child care background study

MN HF2900

Child care, child safety and permanency, child support, economic assistance, deep poverty, housing and homelessness, behavioral health, medical education and research cost account, MinnesotaCare, Tribal Elder Office, background studies, and licensing governing provisions modified; and money appropriated.

MN SF2966

Human services provisions modification

MN HF2863

Cross-references in the definition of child care background study subject corrected.

MN SF2248

Employment qualifications modification for child care centers and amending child care center staffing rules