Bill > SB160

This bill requires numerous state and local government agencies, professional licensing boards, and educational institutions to conduct fingerprint-based criminal background checks for employees, volunteers, contractors, and applicants. The bill mandates that these entities submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to determine whether individuals have a criminal conviction record. The DOJ will provide state and federal-level responses, which may include information about convictions, pending trials, arrests, and sex offender registration status. The bill covers a wide range of entities and professions, including medical boards, psychology boards, law enforcement agencies, schools, universities, state departments, and various licensing boards for professions such as repossession agents, private investigators, and yacht brokers. Starting January 1, 2028, the bill will require entities to verify volunteer status at least every six months and enter into contracts with the DOJ for subsequent notification of criminal history changes. The bill also appropriates $10,000 to the DOJ for administering these new fingerprint requirements and is designed to take effect immediately as part of the budget process. The goal is to enhance public safety by providing more comprehensive background check procedures across various government and professional sectors.

Budget and Finance

Budget and Fiscal Review (Senate)

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB160