NY A07904

Transfers authority for criminal background checks from the office of mental health to the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs for service providers working with clients who receive mental health services.

Removes language restricting emergency interim placement schools from residential program requirements for children with disabilities, making background check requirements applicable to all approved residential private schools.

Expands criminal history background check requirements for authorized agencies operating residential programs for children to include both state and federal criminal history information from the Division of Criminal Justice Services and Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Establishes procedures for authorized agencies to access criminal history information on job applicants, including notifying prospective employees of their right to correct inaccurate information and limiting access to designated personnel and hiring decision-makers.

Designates civil penalties including misdemeanor charges for unauthorized disclosure of confidential criminal history information.