Bill > H0494

This bill establishes new provisions for background checks conducted by the Department of Health and Welfare (DHW), defining terms like "applicant" and "background check," which can include checks of criminal records, federal bureau of investigation (FBI) data, and various registries. It authorizes the DHW to conduct these checks, which are considered confidential and will only be disclosed as permitted by law. The DHW can create rules and set fees for these background checks, which are generally paid by the applicant. The bill specifies a broad range of individuals and entities subject to these checks, including those working with children, the elderly, or vulnerable adults, such as adoptive parent applicants, licensed daycare facilities, home health agencies, and court-appointed guardians. It also repeals an existing law related to criminal history and background checks and makes conforming amendments to other sections of Idaho law, including those concerning temporary care assistance programs, guardianship proceedings, and daycare facilities, to reflect the new background check framework. The bill also includes a limitation on liability for the DHW or employers who rely on the results of these background checks when making employment decisions.

Health and Social Services

Health and Welfare Committee (House)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/H0494/