This bill aims to enhance the hiring process for individuals in positions involving regular contact with students in public, private, denominational, or parochial schools in Nebraska. It introduces definitions for "child abuse" and "sexual misconduct," and mandates that school boards or governing authorities require applicants to provide detailed employment history, including any past allegations of child abuse or sexual misconduct. Additionally, the bill stipulates that applicants must authorize the release of relevant records from previous employers and outlines the consequences for providing false information, which may include termination, civil penalties, and reporting to relevant authorities.
Furthermore, the bill prohibits school boards from entering into agreements that would suppress or destroy information related to investigations of child abuse or sexual misconduct. It also establishes that any employment contracts contrary to these provisions will be void. The State Department of Education is tasked with creating a public awareness campaign to inform both applicants and employers of their rights and responsibilities under this legislation. Overall, the bill seeks to ensure a safer environment for students by implementing stricter hiring practices and accountability measures for school employees.