HB1196 Summary

• Amends the School Code to require criminal history records checks and Statewide Sex Offender Database checks for all certified and noncertified school district employees hired before August 12, 2004, beginning January 1, 2012.

• Extends background check requirements to employees of contractors with school districts, including food service workers, school bus drivers, and transportation employees with direct daily contact with students.

• Requires checks of the Statewide Child Murderer and Violent Offender Against Youth Database in addition to existing criminal history and sex offender database checks for all applicants and affected employees.

• Maintains confidentiality protections for criminal records information and establishes procedures for school districts and regional superintendents to conduct and share background check results.

• Allows school districts to rely on background check certificates issued by regional superintendents for substitute teachers and concurrent part-time employees seeking work in multiple districts.