CT HB05259

Repeals and replaces Section 19a-491c to expand the definition of "disqualifying offense" to include specific Connecticut criminal statutes (53a-54a through 53a-134) in addition to federal crimes under 42 USC 1320a-7(a).

Requires long-term care facilities (nursing homes, assisted living, hospice, etc.) to conduct criminal history and patient abuse background searches on all individuals with direct access to patients before employment, contracting, or volunteering.

Establishes a waiver process allowing individuals with disqualifying offenses to request exemption based on mitigating circumstances including rehabilitation, lack of relationship to the position, inaccuracy of information, or substantial time elapsed since the offense.

Permits conditional employment for up to 60 days with direct on-site supervision while background checks are processed, provided the individual signs an affidavit stating they have no disqualifying offense.

Changes notice procedures from printing in the Connecticut Law Journal to posting on the eRegulations System for implementation of the background search program.