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HB 20

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 19 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATED TO CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR DEPARTMENT OF LABOR EMPLOYEES, CONTRACTORS, AND SUBCONTRACTORS WITH ACCESS TO CONFIDENTIAL OR SENSITIVE INFORMATION.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Frank Cooke and 9 co-sponsors

Delaware law now requires criminal background checks for Department of Labor employees and contractors accessing confidential information to prevent misuse of sensitive resident and business data.

Signed by Governor
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 20

Legislative bill overview

HB 20 requires criminal background checks for all Delaware Department of Labor employees, contractors, and subcontractors who have access to confidential or sensitive information. The bill amends Title 19 of Delaware Code to establish these screening procedures as a condition of employment or contract work involving restricted data access.

Why is this important

The Department of Labor maintains sensitive personal information including Social Security numbers, wage records, unemployment benefits data, and other identifying details for Delaware residents and businesses. Background checks protect this data from unauthorized access by individuals with criminal histories, particularly those convicted of identity theft, fraud, or related crimes that could facilitate misuse of confidential information.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and cost considerations: Expanding background checks to all contractors and subcontactors may increase administrative burden and costs, potentially affecting small contractors' willingness to work with the state
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's language regarding what constitutes "access to confidential or sensitive information" could be interpreted broadly or narrowly, creating implementation challenges
  • Disqualifying offenses: The legislation may not specify which criminal convictions warrant disqualification, potentially leading to inconsistent application or challenges regarding rehabilitation and employment fairness

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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