New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB1398

Introduced
12/1/21  
Refer
12/1/21  
Report Pass
2/10/22  
Engrossed
3/1/22  
Refer
3/1/22  
Report Pass
4/14/22  
Enrolled
6/7/22  
Chaptered
6/22/22  

Caption

Establishing a committee to study the feasibility of centralized criminal history records checks in education.

Impact

If implemented, the committee formed under HB 1398 would investigate various aspects of current practices regarding criminal history records. The challenges presented by the existence of fragmented background check systems that require multiple independent checks for educators would be a central point of focus. Discussions would explore the viability of a centralized registry maintained by the Department of Education, which could reduce redundancy and streamline the hiring process for schools looking to employ individuals who frequently move between districts.

Summary

House Bill 1398 aims to establish a committee tasked with studying the feasibility of creating centralized criminal history records checks specifically for those working in the education sector. The bill recognizes the broad range of professions associated with multiple school districts and outlines the need for a more efficient system that may simplify the background checking process for educators and other education-related personnel. By evaluating the potential for a centralized system, the bill emphasizes the importance of facilitating mobility within the educational workforce while maintaining safety and security standards.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment around HB 1398 reflects a positive outlook on efforts to enhance safety and streamline processes in the education sector. Policymakers and educational stakeholders generally appreciate the initiative to study the system's feasibility, viewing it as a proactive step towards improving measures that ensure the integrity of those working with students. However, some may express concerns about how centralized checks could impact privacy or the thoroughness of background investigations.

Contention

While the bill principally fosters a study to explore the feasibility of improved processes, there is potential contention surrounding the implementation of a centralized registry. Critics may argue that consolidating background checks could lead to risks of inadequate scrutiny or compromise specific local regulations. The committee's findings and eventual recommendations will likely spark further debate on balancing efficiency in hiring against safeguarding the welfare of students, and addressing the complexities involved in sharing sensitive information.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH SB256

Establishing a committee to study the feasibility of replacing the site evaluation committee.

NH HB1002

Establishing a committee to study the feasibility of personal use of state-owned vehicles.

NH HB1464

Establishing a committee to study the feasibility and implementation of furthering electric vehicle adoption in New Hampshire.

NH HB1499

Establishing a committee to study the civilian clean energy, community resilience, and conservation corps, and establishing a committee to study the child protection act.

NH HB157

Establishing a study committee to examine ways to improve the usefulness of fiscal notes.

NH SB221

Establishing a study committee to examine day care access and affordability.

NH SB221

Establishing a study committee to examine day care access and affordability.

NH SB454

Establishing a committee to study the information collected by the division of vital records administration as part of the live birth worksheet.

NH HB2243

Fingerprinting; criminal history; records checks

NH HB1274

Establishing a committee to study the solid waste practices of state agencies.

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