NJ S3485

Requires schools (K-12 and higher education) to verify employment history of job applicants through Department of Human Services records and contact prior employers from the past 20 years to check for child abuse or sexual misconduct allegations, investigations, or related disciplinary actions

Mandates each school district, charter school, nonpublic school, and institution of higher education designate a compliance specialist to oversee adherence to the law and maintain hiring records subject to State Auditor review

Establishes standardized investigation procedures for allegations of child abuse or sexual misconduct, requiring completion within 10 school/business days, with designated investigation committees receiving mandatory free training

Authorizes the State Auditor to conduct 30 random annual audits of K-12 schools and contractors plus 3 random audits of higher education institutions, with immediate audits triggered by reported noncompliance

Creates penalties for noncompliance including fines, withholding of State aid, license suspension or revocation for employees, and public listing of noncompliant institutions on department websites