New Jersey Assembly Bill A1611

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24
• Refer: 10/21/24

Caption

Establishes central registry for background checks of youth serving organization employees and volunteers.

Impact

The establishment of this registry is meant to streamline the process of conducting background checks, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of vetting personnel in organizations that serve children. By requiring that these checks be completed through the State Bureau of Identification, the bill positions the Department of Law and Public Safety to uphold uniform standards concerning which offenses may disqualify a candidate from participating in youth activities. There is a cost associated with these background checks, which will be borne by the prospective employees or volunteers.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1611 aims to establish a central registry for background checks specific to employees and volunteers within youth-serving organizations in New Jersey. This 'Youth Serving Organization Central Registry' would function as a clearinghouse, collecting and disseminating information derived from criminal history record checks. The intent of the bill is to ensure a safer environment for minors by vetting individuals involved in providing recreational and educational services to youth under 18 years of age.

Contention

While the bill maintains current disqualifiers for crimes related to safety, there may be concerns surrounding potential barriers to volunteerism and employment for individuals with past histories that would otherwise not impede their interaction with youth. The requirement for regular renewal of background checks every two years could also place a financial burden on volunteer organizations, particularly smaller, community-based or non-profit entities that may struggle to absorb these costs and administrative requirements.