IL SB3293

Amends the Health Care Worker Background Check Act to allow peer recovery specialists to request waivers from the Illinois Department of Public Health to work in health care despite criminal records.

Waiver applicants must complete a Department-prescribed form and provide written explanations of convictions including what occurred, years since offense, individuals involved, applicant's age at time of offense, and surrounding circumstances.

Applicants must submit official documentation showing all fines have been paid (except those on payment schedules) and dates probation or parole was satisfactorily completed.

Applicants may optionally submit employment and character references and other evidence demonstrating competence and that they do not pose a threat to residents, patients, or clients.

The Department of Public Health must act on waiver requests within 30 days of receiving all necessary information and provide written notification specifying which disqualifying offenses are being granted or denied.