DE HB47

Requires fingerprint-based Delaware and national criminal background checks plus Child Protection Registry checks for all employees, volunteers, and contractors at private schools (grades K-12), eliminating previous options for private schools to use alternative name-based checks or opt out with parental notification

Creates a new section (§ 309A) establishing specific background check procedures for private schools, including summer schools and youth camps operated by private schools, with results sent to the head of school or designee

Removes the previous exemption that allowed private schools and youth camps to conduct name-based checks through DELJIS and third-party providers instead of fingerprint-based FBI checks

Authorizes the State to bear background check costs for child-care facility applicants and allows the Department of Education and DSCYF to pay for employee background checks

Requires compliance by September 1, 2026, with the law taking effect July 1, 2026