The bill amends RCW 43.43.830 and introduces a new section to chapter 43.43 RCW, focusing on the fingerprint background check process for individuals involved in the care of children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. Key definitions are updated, including the terms "applicant," "qualified entity," and "unsupervised," to broaden the scope of individuals subject to background checks. The bill specifies that both qualified entities and federally recognized tribes are authorized to conduct state and national fingerprint-based criminal history checks for noncriminal justice purposes, ensuring that these checks are performed prior to employment, licensing, or volunteering.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of qualified entities and federally recognized tribes in conducting these background checks, including notifying applicants of their rights regarding their criminal history records and maintaining privacy. It establishes procedures for the Washington State Patrol to facilitate the interstate exchange of criminal history information and sets forth the requirements for handling and challenging the results of background checks. The bill also includes provisions for fees associated with the processing of these checks and limits liability for qualified entities and the state regarding the information obtained through this process.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.43.830
Substitute Bill: 43.43.830
Engrossed Substitute: 43.43.830
Bill as Passed Legislature: 43.43.830