Michigan Senate Bill SB1007

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/19/24
• Refer: 9/19/24

Caption

Children: child care; passing along fees for criminal background checks to certain childcare employees to the employees; prohibit. Amends secs. 5d & 5n of 1973 PA 116 (MCL 722.115d & 722.115n).

Impact

The potential legal ramifications of Senate Bill 1007 are significant as it modifies how employment regulations are enforced within the child care industry. By taking financial responsibility for background checks off the shoulders of applicants, the bill could lead to a more diverse workforce in child care settings, as individuals who might have previously opted out due to costs could now apply. However, this may place additional financial pressures on child care organizations that must now absorb these costs. The legislation aims to balance the necessity of keeping children safe with the need for equitable access to employment opportunities in this vital industry.

Summary

Senate Bill 1007 seeks to amend the existing legislation on child care organizations by explicitly prohibiting these organizations from passing the costs of criminal background checks onto job applicants or employees. This measure is aimed at enhancing the financial accessibility of employment within child care settings, particularly for low-income individuals seeking to work in this sector. The bill reinforces the requirement for child care organizations to perform thorough criminal history checks prior to hiring and stipulates that any applicants who are found to have a conviction for a listed offense cannot be offered employment. The intent is to ensure the safety and well-being of children under their care while also ensuring that the financial burden of background checks does not impede potential employees' ability to secure jobs.

Contention

While the bill is largely viewed as a positive shift in promoting greater access to employment in child care, opposition may arise from child care organizations concerned about the added financial burden of conducting background checks without the possibility of recouping costs. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the thoroughness of background checks if organizations are pressured to minimize costs. Thus, the bill could ignite debates over how to balance child safety, organizational costs, and employment accessibility.