The bill seeks to improve the background check process for home care workers in Washington State by amending existing laws governing the screening of long-term care workers. It stipulates that the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) cannot automatically disqualify individuals from working with vulnerable populations based solely on certain criminal convictions if a specified period has passed since the last conviction, with defined timeframes for various offenses. The bill also clarifies that these provisions do not apply to background checks for the Department of Children, Youth, and Families or to DSHS employees, except in specific circumstances.

Additionally, the legislation introduces new requirements for character, competence, and suitability reviews, allowing individual providers and home care agency providers to work for up to 30 days while awaiting background check results, provided they do not have disqualifying convictions. It mandates that clients receiving care be informed of the background check results and their rights regarding these results. The bill also establishes definitions for terms related to the background check process and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the safety of vulnerable adults and minors. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations by ensuring thorough vetting and monitoring of care providers.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.20A.715, 74.39A.056
Substitute Bill: 43.20A.715, 74.39A.056
Engrossed Substitute: 43.20A.715, 74.39A.056
Bill as Passed Legislature: 43.20A.715, 74.39A.056
Session Law: 43.20A.715, 74.39A.056