Oregon is taking steps to improve how job applicants and volunteers get background checks. House Bill 3224, which initiates work to simplify and streamline processes, passed the Senate on June 3 and is headed to Governor Tina Kotek for her signature.
Background checks are essential safety measures before a person begins work around children, with vulnerable adults, and in many government jobs. In practice, the system for many of those legally required reviews has become complicated, fragmented, and inefficient.
“We hear way too many stories of people getting multiple background checks, even in the same year, and waiting weeks before they’re cleared for work,” said Rep. Nancy Nathanson (D-North Eugene), “This bill is about improving government while preserving safety. It’s about time we make real progress to make a positive impact for people seeking work and people waiting for help.”
House Bill 3224 confronts a problem that has caused hiring complications for employers, headaches for workers, and delays for the people they serve. Redundant background checks for people who had one recently could be avoided if the scope and frequency of checks were merged for similar programs, such as for public schools and child care programs.
Tuesday’s Senate vote was unanimous, after HB 3224 passed the House unanimously April 14.
