The proposed bill would update current statutes by replacing the existing requirement for noncertificated personnel in school districts and charter schools to be fingerprinted for a criminal records check with a mandate to obtain a fingerprint clearance card as a condition of employment. This change, indicated by new language, would eliminate exemptions for certain school personnel, thereby broadening the range of individuals required to obtain this clearance. Additionally, the bill extends this requirement to all charter school personnel who are not specifically designated as teachers or administrators, ensuring uniform standards for those providing services directly to students. Moreover, the bill appropriates $1,200,000 from the state General Fund for the State Board of Education to investigate complaints of immoral or unprofessional conduct among noncertificated personnel, as outlined in the new provisions. It also introduces provisions that allow charter schools to hire personnel before receiving fingerprint check results under specific conditions, clarifies that individuals with verified fingerprints on file do not need to resubmit unless necessary, and establishes civil liability immunity for public entities involved in background checks. Overall, these updates aim to enhance safety and accountability in educational settings while streamlining the hiring process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-106, 15-183, 15-505, 15-512, 41-1758.01, 41-1750, 92-544, 41-1758.03, 114-95, 108-446, 15-550, 15-203, 15-741.01, 15-213, 1-216, 15-914, 11-952.01, 41-621.01, 41-1092.08, 3-365, 15-808, 15-154, 15-771, 15-513
Senate Engrossed Version: 15-106, 15-183, 15-505, 15-512, 41-1758.01, 41-1750, 92-544, 41-1758.03, 114-95, 108-446, 15-550, 15-203, 15-741.01, 15-213, 1-216, 15-914, 11-952.01, 41-621.01, 41-1092.08, 3-365, 15-808, 15-154, 15-771, 15-513