NY A02512

Expands definition of "qualified agencies" under Executive Law Section 835 to allow local social services districts access to court databases when acting within the scope of duties under social services law or family court act, rather than only during specific child protective services investigations.

Authorizes local social services districts to investigate criminal backgrounds of persons age 18 and over who reside or are proposed to reside with children who are subjects of family court proceedings under Articles 3, 6, 7, 10, 10-A, or 10-C of the family court act.

Permits designated local social services district personnel to access criminal conviction records maintained by the division of criminal justice services for persons residing with or proposed to live with children in abuse, maltreatment, or neglect cases.

Requires criminal history records provided to child protective services units remain confidential and prohibits making reports based solely on the existence of a conviction record.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.