House Bill No. by Representative Larvadain amends existing law regarding criminal background checks for early childhood workers. The bill modifies R.S. 17:8.9(A)(1) by removing the requirement that applicants for initial educator credentials or teaching authorizations undergo a criminal history record check starting January 1, 2025, and instead states that any applicant must undergo such checks. Additionally, the bill introduces R.S. 17:8.9(A)(6), which specifies that an early childhood ancillary certificate, as defined by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, will not be classified as an educator credential or teaching authorization that requires a criminal history check. However, applicants for issuance or renewal of this certificate may request a background check if their certificate was previously denied, suspended, or revoked.

The proposed changes create an exception for certain early childhood workers regarding the criminal history check for certification purposes, while still maintaining the requirement for employment purposes. The bill is set to take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action if not signed.

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