The bill aims to clarify and expand the scope of criminal background checks for all emergency medical services personnel in Arkansas. It amends existing laws to ensure that disqualifying offenses include those prosecuted in other states or by federal courts, thereby broadening the criteria for certification and recertification. Specifically, the language has been updated to remove references to offenses only being applicable if prosecuted in state courts and to include similar conduct under other jurisdictions. Additionally, the bill specifies that individuals who have been convicted of certain crimes may request a waiver after five years, and it ensures that these individuals are not suspended from their roles while awaiting a final determination from the Secretary of the Department of Health.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the criteria under which applicants may be disqualified from certification or recertification based on misdemeanor offenses. It stipulates that applicants will not be disqualified for misdemeanors that do not involve exploitation, abuse, neglect, or sexual contact, and it clarifies that such offenses must not have been committed while performing duties as emergency medical services personnel. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the safety and integrity of emergency medical services by ensuring thorough background checks and fair consideration of applicants' past offenses.

Statutes affected:
HB 1251: 20-13-1106(a), 20-13-1106(b)
Act 51: 20-13-1106(a), 20-13-1106(b)