OLR Bill Analysis

sSB 756

AN ACT CONCERNING A DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT REGISTRY CHECK FOR APPLICANTS OF EMPLOYMENT WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES OR THE DEPARTMENT'S PROVIDERS.

SUMMARY:

This bill permits the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) commissioner to require anyone applying for a job with the department or a provider it licenses or funds to submit to a check of the Department of Childen and Families' child abuse and neglect registry.

EFFECTIVE DATE: October 1, 2009

BACKGROUND

Related Law and Policy

By law, anyone applying for a job in a DDS program that provides direct services to clients must submit to a state criminal history background check, and the DDS commissioner can (and does through policy) require private providers to establish written policies requiring such checks for their job applicants. When a check is conducted, the law prohibits DDS or a private provider from hiring anyone before the results are available (CGS § 17a-227a). The law also prohibits employers from hiring someone listed on the DDS abuse and neglect registry for a position involving service to a DDS client (CGS § 17a-247c).

COMMITTEE ACTION

Public Health Committee

Joint Favorable Change of Reference

Human Services Committee

Joint Favorable Substitute