Substitute House Bill No. 6774 seeks to strengthen background check requirements for employees, contractors, and volunteers at long-term care facilities in Connecticut, with an effective date of October 1, 2025. The bill introduces a new definition of "background search," which includes checks of the nurse's aide registry, state and national criminal history records, and other relevant registries as determined by the Department of Public Health. It also expands the definition of "disqualifying offense" to encompass a broader range of crimes and substantiated findings of neglect or abuse. Importantly, the bill mandates that background checks be conducted for all individuals offered employment or contracted for services, as well as volunteers who have direct access to patients, thereby enhancing the safety protocols in these facilities.

The legislation maintains the existing provision that allows facilities to bypass a background check if an individual has undergone one within the past three years without any disqualifying offenses. It also permits the commissioner to suspend background check requirements during emergencies. While the bill may incur minimal fiscal impacts, particularly for the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection in conducting fingerprint-based checks, it is anticipated to generate revenue from associated fees. Overall, the bill aims to ensure thorough vetting of individuals who will have access to vulnerable populations in long-term care settings.