ME LD1157

Expands the definition of "direct access worker" to include specific categories such as physicians, nurses, pharmacists, therapists, certified nursing assistants, behavioral health providers, administrative staff, and facility services staff who require background checks

Adds home and community-based service agencies licensed under Title 34-B, section 1203-B to the list of providers subject to background check requirements

Changes background check terminology from "offense" to "conviction" and requires reports to indicate whether individuals are "eligible for hire" or "ineligible for hire" rather than detailing disqualifying offenses

Modifies the implementation timeline for biometric-based background checks from a fixed October 1, 2024 date to when capability becomes available for each specified provider type

Clarifies that waivers for disqualifying criminal history are applicable only to the requesting employer and are not transferable between employers