House Bill 1069 amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance background screening requirements for individuals in roles involving vulnerable populations, such as care providers and athletic coaches. The bill introduces additional disqualifying offenses, including DUI manslaughter and domestic violence, and assigns the Agency for Health Care Administration the responsibility of determining eligibility for criminal history checks starting January 1, 2026. It also allows individuals without background screenings to serve as athletic coaches under supervision and mandates independent authorities to conduct level 2 background screenings for all coaches, ensuring compliance with security and privacy laws regarding criminal history information.

Furthermore, the bill strengthens reporting requirements for school employees regarding criminal offenses, requiring law enforcement to notify school authorities within 48 hours of an employee's arrest for specific disqualifying offenses. School principals must inform parents of students who had direct contact with the arrested employee within 24 hours. The bill also establishes self-reporting obligations for instructional and administrative personnel, mandating them to report any arrests or convictions for felonies or specified misdemeanors to the school district within 48 hours. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and includes provisions for the immediate removal of individuals from their positions if they are arrested or convicted of certain offenses.

Statutes affected:
H 1069 Filed: 435.12, 44.407, 501.9741