Virginia House Bill HB1822

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/23
• Refer: 1/10/23
• Report Pass: 1/25/23
• Engrossed: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/1/23
• Report Pass: 2/9/23
• Enrolled: 2/16/23
• Chaptered: 3/27/23
• Passed: 3/27/23

Caption

Public school employees; offense involving solicitation of sexual molestation, etc.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1822 will amend the Code of Virginia, directly impacting the employment practices of public schools. It will require school boards to implement rigorous background checks for any employee, whether permanent or temporary, who will have direct contact with students. By enforcing such standards, the Bill aims to protect students from potential harm and maintain trust in public education. Furthermore, any individual found to have made false statements regarding their background will face significant legal consequences.

Summary

House Bill 1822 mandates that public school employees and contractors have to provide certification regarding their criminal history prior to employment or contract award, particularly concerning offenses related to child abuse and moral turpitude. This bill is designed to enhance student safety by ensuring that individuals in direct contact with students do not have any violent felonies or serious offenses related to child abuse in their history. The implications for school boards include a more stringent hiring process and easier methods to assess applicants' backgrounds regarding past offenses.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 1822 reflects a strong consensus on the importance of student safety. Supporters of the bill, including educational institutions and child protection advocates, have praised it as a necessary step towards ensuring a secure learning environment. Critics, however, express concern about possible overreach and the implications it may have on employment opportunities for individuals with past convictions unrelated to child safety, potentially impacting their reintegration into the workforce.

Contention

Notably, the bill has sparked debates regarding its strict measures relating to the employment of those who have committed past offenses. Opponents argue that while safeguarding children is paramount, the bill may inadvertently contribute to a stigma against individuals seeking to turn their lives around after past mistakes. The contention stems from balancing the need for safety with fair labor practices, ensuring that due process and rehabilitation are included in discussions about hiring protocols in public schools.