The bill amends the Public Health Code to implement stricter regulations concerning the employment and clinical privileges of individuals with criminal convictions in covered facilities, such as nursing homes and mental health facilities. It prohibits these facilities from hiring or granting privileges to individuals convicted of specific crimes, including violent offenses, abuse, neglect, and drug-related crimes, unless a designated period has passed since the completion of their sentencing, parole, or probation. The bill introduces new language requiring individuals to undergo a criminal history check prior to employment or privileges and outlines the process for obtaining this information. Additionally, it allows for conditional employment, permitting facilities to hire individuals before receiving criminal history check results, provided they affirm they have not been convicted of disqualifying offenses.

The legislation also mandates that individuals confirm their residency in the state for at least the past 12 months and specifies conditions for direct patient access without supervision. It establishes a process for appealing disqualifications from employment based on criminal history checks, ensuring these appeals are treated as contested case hearings. Furthermore, the bill requires the department of state police to maintain a system for automatic notifications regarding any subsequent criminal information related to individuals previously checked. Various definitions and clarifications are included, along with penalties for non-compliance with the criminal history check requirements, all aimed at enhancing the safety and integrity of staffing in health facilities.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 333.20173