Senate Bill 30 is making waves in the Kansas Senate Judiciary Committee, as it proposes significant changes to how criminal history checks are conducted for employees with access to sensitive tax information from the IRS. The bill mandates that the Secretary of Labor perform both state and national criminal history record checks on these employees, ensuring a higher level of scrutiny for those handling confidential data.

The proposed legislation amends existing statutes to broaden the scope of criminal history information available to the Secretary of Labor. This includes not only adult convictions but also non-convictions, diversions, and juvenile adjudications. The goal is to enhance security and accountability among employees who manage federal tax information.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that these employees must undergo fingerprinting and submit to comprehensive background checks. A new definition of "employee" is introduced, encompassing anyone who has applied for or currently holds a position with the Secretary of Labor and has access to tax information.

During the meeting, concerns were raised about the implications for juvenile records and expunged information. Committee members sought clarification on whether the bill would allow for the disclosure of records that are not already mandated by law. The response indicated that the bill does not expand the disclosure requirements beyond what is currently established.

As the committee deliberates on this bill, its potential impact on employee screening processes and data security in Kansas remains a focal point. The next steps will involve further discussions and possible amendments before the bill moves forward in the legislative process.