Bill > S01056

This bill modifies existing New York state laws to provide free criminal history background checks for mentoring programs operated by not-for-profit corporations. Specifically, the legislation amends the social services law and executive law to eliminate processing fees for criminal background checks when requested by qualifying mentoring programs. The bill expands the definition of "mentoring program" to include not-for-profit corporations, educational institutions, school districts, and youth sports programs that match youth with adult volunteers to provide positive role models. Under the new provisions, when these organizations need to conduct background checks on prospective employees or mentors, the Division of Criminal Justice Services will waive the standard processing fee (typically up to $25 with a $50 surcharge). This change aims to make it easier and more cost-effective for mentoring organizations to conduct thorough background screenings, potentially enhancing child safety by removing financial barriers to comprehensive volunteer screening. The law will take effect 60 days after it is signed.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1056