The bill amends Section 40-13.2-5 of the General Laws concerning the certification of childcare and youth-serving workers and operators. It introduces new requirements for criminal records checks for employees and volunteers in various childcare and youth programs, including those providing instruction or supervision in activities such as dance, sports, cheerleading, gymnastics, wrestling, martial arts, music instruction, and academic tutoring. Specifically, it mandates that any person with supervisory authority or routine contact with children undergo a comprehensive nationwide criminal records check, which must include fingerprint-based identification consistent with applicable federal requirements. Organizations are prohibited from allowing individuals to commence service prior to the completion of the required background checks.

The bill eliminates the requirement for applicants to pay for their criminal records checks starting July 1, 2026, making these checks free for new applicants. Additionally, it allows individuals with an active United States government top secret sensitive compartmented information (TS/SCI) security clearance to satisfy the criminal background check requirements by submitting proof of their clearance status, which must be verified by the appropriate federal authority or employer. Upon verification, these individuals will be deemed to have satisfied the nationwide criminal records check requirement, provided their clearance remains active and in good standing. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
8136: 40-13.2-5