Bill > S2216

This bill establishes a comprehensive criminal and employment background check procedure for all school employees, including those working for school districts, charter schools, nonpublic schools, and contracted service providers who regularly interact with students. It requires these entities to conduct criminal background checks and also mandates that applicants provide a detailed employment history for the past twenty years, specifically listing former employers where they worked with schools or had direct contact with children, along with a written authorization for disclosure of records. Applicants must also disclose any past investigations into child abuse or sexual misconduct, disciplinary actions related to such allegations, or professional license suspensions or revocations. Employers must then verify this information by contacting previous employers and inquiring about any child abuse or sexual misconduct investigations, disciplinary actions, or license issues. The bill defines "sexual misconduct" as any communication or act directed toward a student to establish a sexual relationship, and "abused or neglected child" or "child abuse" as defined in existing law. Penalties for applicants who provide false information include disciplinary action up to termination or denial of employment, and a potential civil penalty of up to $500, with employers required to notify applicants of these penalties. The bill also outlines procedures for verifying out-of-state employment history and states that if background checks are clear but employment history raises concerns about an applicant's fitness to interact with children, the hiring entity cannot allow the applicant access to students until a thorough investigation is completed and the applicant is cleared. This act will take effect upon its passage.

Education

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