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RI H8136
Bill
Status
2/27/2026
Primary Sponsor
Maryann Shallcross-Smith
Click for details
AI Summary
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Eliminates criminal background check fees for new childcare employment applicants beginning July 1, 2026; prior to that date, applicants and/or requesting agencies remain responsible for costs
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Expands mandatory nationwide criminal background checks to include paid and volunteer instructors in youth programs such as dance, sports, cheerleading, gymnastics, wrestling, martial arts, music, and academic tutoring
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Prohibits organizations offering youth activity programs from allowing individuals to begin service until completing required fingerprint-based criminal background checks
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Allows applicants holding an active U.S. government Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance to satisfy background check requirements upon verification, in lieu of standard fingerprinting
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Takes effect immediately upon passage
Legislative Description
Eliminates fingerprinting fees for licensed childcare hires, require background checks for youth activity instructors, and allow active TS/SCI clearance to satisfy criminal background check requirements.
Human Services
Last Action
Introduced, referred to House Health & Human Services
2/27/2026