IL HB2982

Requires fingerprint-based criminal history records checks for all certified and noncertified school employees (except bus drivers), including substitute teachers and concurrent part-time teachers.

Mandates checks of the Statewide Sex Offender Database and Statewide Murderer and Violent Offender Against Youth Database for all applicants seeking employment with school districts.

Allows regional superintendents to conduct checks for substitute teachers and concurrent part-time employees seeking work across multiple school districts and issue certificates valid for 90 days in the Educator Licensure Information System.

Prohibits school boards from knowingly employing anyone convicted of enumerated criminal offenses, any felony within 7 years of application, or anyone found to be a perpetrator of sexual or physical abuse of minors.

Makes conviction records confidential and restricts disclosure to school board presidents, superintendents, regional superintendents, the State Superintendent of Education, and the State Board of Education as needed for hiring decisions.