AR HB1650

Expands background check requirements to include preservice teachers (unlicensed individuals enrolled in teacher preparation programs) for both criminal records checks and Child Maltreatment Central Registry checks.

Allows institutions of higher education to enroll students in educator preparation programs despite disqualifying offenses, but requires background checks before supervised clinical practice.

Permits expunged or pardoned convictions to no longer disqualify applicants if the conviction is 10 or more years old and does not involve physical or sexual injury, mistreatment, or abuse of another.

Authorizes school district boards and educational entities to request waivers of disqualifying offenses from the State Board of Education for both licensed personnel and classified employees, with waivers applying to employment eligibility.

Requires electronic fingerprinting methods beginning July 1, 2016, with fingerprint cards only accepted for out-of-state/country applicants or when electronic fingerprinting cannot be obtained after a minimum of two attempts.