Relating to hiring and employment requirements for persons in direct contact with children at certain facilities.
If enacted, HB3153 will amend the Health and Safety Code by adding Chapter 811, which will apply to government entities, regulating how they ensure child safety at licensed and operated facilities. The law requires that every facility must be vigilant in checking state and federal criminal history records and past employment verification for anyone who will interact with children. These requirements aim to foster a safer environment for children, ensuring that individuals with a history of abuse are not placed in positions of influence or contact with vulnerable populations.
House Bill 3153 aims to enhance protective measures for children at various facilities by enforcing stringent hiring and employment requirements for individuals who may come into direct contact with children. Specifically, the bill mandates that facilities—including residential treatment centers, juvenile detention facilities, and certain shelters—conduct thorough criminal history reviews and employment verifications for all prospective employees, volunteers, and independent contractors. This provision addresses concerns over the potential vulnerabilities of children in such settings and seeks to mitigate risks associated with physical and sexual abuse.
There may be some contention surrounding the implementation of this bill. Supporters argue that it is necessary to protect children from potential abusers in caregiving roles and to promote accountability among facilities. Conversely, opponents may raise concerns regarding the feasibility of rigorous background checks, potentially viewing them as obstacles for recruitment in facilities already facing staffing shortages, especially in underprivileged areas. The proposed requirement for ongoing monitoring of employees, volunteers, and contractors through electronic updates from the Department of Public Safety also raises questions about privacy and administrative burdens.