WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 22

relative to disclosure of criminal history and criminal records to the child care licensing unit of the department of health and human services.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Howard Pearl

SB 22 requires criminal history disclosure to New Hampshire's child care licensing agency to strengthen background screening and child safety protections in licensed facilities.

II. Remainder Effective 07/01/2025
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 22

Legislative bill overview

SB 22 requires criminal history and records to be disclosed to New Hampshire's child care licensing unit within the Department of Health and Human Services. The bill establishes clearer procedures for sharing criminal background information between law enforcement and the state agency responsible for overseeing child care facilities and providers.

Why is this important

Child care licensing agencies rely on criminal history to identify individuals who pose safety risks to children and to enforce licensing standards. This bill streamlines information sharing, potentially preventing individuals with disqualifying criminal convictions from working in or operating child care settings, thereby enhancing child safety protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns: Expanded disclosure of criminal records raises questions about data privacy, storage security, and potential misuse of sensitive information by state agencies
  • Scope of "criminal history": Unclear whether the bill includes sealed records, juvenile records, or convictions that have been expunged, which could unfairly impact individuals seeking rehabilitation
  • False positives and barriers to employment: Broader disclosure may prevent people with minor or old convictions from working in child care, even if they pose no genuine risk to children

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

Sign in to ask a question.