Bill > HB2583

This bill amends Arizona law to enhance teacher qualifications and fingerprinting requirements for those involved in education, particularly within the Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESAs) program. Key provisions include expanding the types of individuals and entities requiring fingerprint clearance cards, such as those providing tutoring services and personnel within "qualified schools" that accept ESA funds. These qualified schools will now be required to ensure all their personnel have a valid fingerprint clearance card or apply for one within twenty days of employment, and also meet basic employment eligibility standards. Furthermore, individuals providing academic instruction in these qualified schools must possess at least a bachelor's degree, three years of teaching experience, or specialized skills. The bill also clarifies that expired fingerprint clearance cards can still be used under certain conditions for specific educational roles, and it establishes a new section detailing these requirements for qualified schools, including annual audits by the Auditor General and penalties for non-compliance, such as reimbursing the state for ESA funds received. The bill also makes technical amendments to various sections related to fingerprinting and criminal history record checks to incorporate these new provisions and definitions.

Education

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/84380