Employees Working With Vulnerable Persons

Fingerprint-based background checks - employees who have contact with vulnerable persons. Current law requires employees of the department of human services (department) and independent contractors with the department (employees) who have or will have direct contact with vulnerable persons to undergo a fingerprint-based criminal history record check (background check) in order to work in a facility operated by or licensed by the department. Current law also requires employees or operators of licensed child care facilities or child placement agencies to undergo a background check. Employees or operators of licensed child care facilities that are under contract with the department must obtain 2 separate background checks, one pursuant to the Colorado human services code, title 26, Colorado Revised Statutes, and one pursuant to the behavioral health statutes in title 27, Colorado Revised Statutes.

The act adds language to statute that allows for a single background check for such employees who have or will have direct contact with vulnerable persons, reducing redundancy for such employees.

(Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)