NJ A4395

Mandates annual criminal history background checks for all employees, volunteers, and organizers of youth serving organizations, including sports teams, leagues, athletic associations, and private athletic lesson providers serving those under 18.

Expands current law from voluntary checks for nonprofit organizations only to mandatory checks for both nonprofit and for-profit youth serving entities.

Establishes civil penalties for organizations failing to request background checks: up to $500 for first offense, $750 for second offense, and $1,000 for third or subsequent offenses.

Creates fourth-degree criminal liability (up to 18 months imprisonment and $10,000 fine) for disqualified individuals who knowingly participate in youth organizations, and for organizers who disregard or fail to obtain required background checks.

Allows school employees with existing background checks to submit proof of that check rather than obtaining a duplicate check within the same calendar year.