Bill > H162

This bill requires counties and cities to conduct mandatory criminal history record checks for job applicants who will be working with children, modifying existing statutes for both county and municipal governments. Specifically, the bill amends two sections of North Carolina law (G.S. 153A-94.2 and G.S. 160A-164.2) to mandate that if a position involves working with children in any capacity, the local government must require a criminal history check conducted by the State Bureau of Investigation in accordance with G.S. 143B-1209.26. While previous versions of these statutes allowed criminal history checks as optional, this bill makes them compulsory for child-related positions, ensuring a more rigorous screening process to protect children. The bill will become effective on October 1, 2025, and will apply to employment applications submitted on or after that date, giving local governments time to prepare for and implement the new requirements.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H162