House Bill No. by Representative Larvadain amends R.S. 17:8.9(A)(1) and enacts R.S. 17:8.9(A)(6) concerning criminal background checks for individuals applying for an early childhood ancillary certificate. The bill removes the requirement for applicants to undergo a criminal history record check starting January 1, 2025, and instead states that any applicant for an initial educator credential or teaching authorization must undergo such a check. Additionally, it introduces a provision that allows applicants for the early childhood ancillary certificate to request a criminal history check if their certificate was previously denied, suspended, or revoked.

The bill aims to streamline the certification process for early childhood educators by eliminating the mandatory background check for the ancillary certificate while still allowing for checks under specific circumstances. The effective date of the bill will be upon the governor's signature or, if not signed, after the designated time for bills to become law without signature.

Statutes affected:
HB352 Original: 17:9(A)(1)
HB352 Engrossed: 17:9(A)(1)
HB352 Enrolled: 17:9(A)(1)