Texas Senate Bill SB67

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08
• Out of Senate Committee: 3/30/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/15/09

Caption

Relating to the imposition of background and criminal history check requirements for operators and employees of certain facilities and agencies serving children, the elderly, or persons who are disabled; providing criminal penalties.

Impact

The implementation of SB67 is expected to significantly amend current state laws regarding compliance and operational standards for child-care and elderly care facilities. Background checks will now be comprehensively conducted not only for prospective employees but also for existing staff at regular intervals. This change aims to enhance the level of scrutiny involved in hiring practices, thereby working towards creating a safer environment for the at-risk populations served by these agencies.

Summary

SB67 aims to enhance safety standards within facilities and agencies that serve vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. The bill mandates that operators and employees of these facilities undergo rigorous background and criminal history checks to ensure the protection of clients who rely on their services. State regulations will thus be reinforced, establishing a more formalized process for monitoring those in direct contact with vulnerable individuals.

Contention

However, some points of contention have arisen around the bill. Opponents might argue that the frequent requirement for background checks could pose undue burdens on agencies and facilities that are already managing high operational costs. Additionally, there is concern regarding the privacy of individuals undergoing these checks, as sensitive information may need to be disclosed or stored throughout the process. Balancing the need for safety and the protection of employees' rights will be crucial as the bill moves forward.