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HB 4412

CHILD CARE-BACKGROUND CHECK

103rd Regular Session Introduced by Harry Benton and 19 co-sponsors

Illinois strengthens child care worker background check requirements to enhance child safety through enhanced vetting procedures for facility employees.

Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Michael J. Kelly
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4412

Legislative bill overview

HB 4412 establishes or modifies background check requirements for individuals working in child care settings in Illinois. The bill passed both chambers unanimously on January 6, 2025, after two Senate committee amendments were incorporated. The legislation aims to strengthen safety protocols in child care facilities through enhanced vetting procedures.

Why is this important

Child care background checks directly affect the safety and protection of vulnerable populations—young children in institutional care. Enhanced screening requirements can help prevent placement of individuals with relevant criminal histories or disqualifying offenses in positions of authority over children, while also impacting operational costs and hiring timelines for child care providers.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of background checks: Disagreement may exist over which offenses should be disqualifying, how far back checks should extend, and whether fingerprinting or other biometric requirements are necessary
  • Implementation costs and burden: Child care providers may face increased expenses and administrative complexity, potentially affecting affordability and availability of child care services
  • False positives and fairness: Concerns about individuals with old convictions or sealed records being permanently excluded from employment, and whether the process adequately distinguishes between relevant and irrelevant criminal history

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

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