The bill mandates that the Department of Military Affairs conduct state and national criminal background checks for all employment and volunteer applicants who will be responsible for supervising minors in various youth programs, including the National Guard Youth Challenge and Job Challenge Academies, as well as the Governor's Summer Program. It establishes a process for these background checks, requiring applicants to submit fingerprints for review by the law enforcement records bureau and the FBI. The results will be used to assess the suitability of individuals for working with minors, and the department is restricted from sharing this information outside of necessary personnel involved in hiring decisions.

Additionally, the bill allows the Adjutant General to utilize appropriated funds and other available resources to support youth programs. It also includes provisions for the provisional hiring of applicants pending the completion of their background checks, as well as guidelines for handling applicants with prior convictions related to sex crimes or offenses involving minors. The bill emphasizes the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of minors participating in these programs.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 20-3-2