Bill > H0410

This bill amends existing Idaho education law to enhance criminal history check requirements and introduce school chaplain provisions. The bill expands the state's criminal history check system to include additional categories of individuals working with students, such as school chaplains, and requires a comprehensive background check using state and federal databases including fingerprint scans, criminal identification records, FBI criminal history checks, and sex offender registry checks. The state department of education will charge individuals a fee to cover the background check costs and maintain a record of these checks. Additionally, the bill establishes a new policy allowing school districts and public charter schools to voluntarily employ or accept school chaplains to provide support services to students, staff, and parents. These chaplains are not required to be state-credentialed but must pass the same criminal history checks as other school personnel. School districts will have discretion in determining chaplain selection criteria and the specific support services they can offer. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause declaring its immediate importance.

Education

Education Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0410/