The bill amends the existing child care licensing law in Michigan, specifically section 5n of 1973 PA 116, to enhance the requirements for criminal history checks and eligibility determinations for individuals applying to operate or work in child care facilities. Key changes include the requirement for individuals to provide written consent for criminal history checks, the necessity for fingerprint submission to both the state police and the FBI, and the establishment of a process for individuals to request redetermination if they are deemed ineligible based on their criminal history. The bill also mandates that the department must provide eligibility determinations within 45 days and outlines the procedures for individuals who have been determined ineligible to contest that decision.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that individuals who have undergone a criminal history check and have remained continuously licensed are not required to submit to another check upon renewal. It emphasizes the importance of updating checks and clearances at least every five years for those who have been continuously licensed or employed in child care roles. The language of the bill includes several insertions and deletions to ensure clarity and consistency in the legal requirements, such as changing "shall" to "must" in various instances to strengthen the obligations of the department and individuals involved in the licensing process.
Statutes affected: Senate Introduced Bill: 722.115