Michigan Senate Bill 85, introduced on February 12, 2025, aims to streamline the process for conducting criminal history checks for individuals seeking employment in child care settings. The bill outlines specific procedures for the Michigan Department of State Police and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to follow when processing these checks, which are crucial for ensuring the safety of children in care facilities.

Key provisions of the bill include a mandate for the Department of State Police to conduct criminal history checks within a reasonable timeframe after receiving a complete request. The results must be reported back to the requesting department, detailing any relevant criminal history maintained by both state and federal agencies. The bill also allows the Department of State Police to charge a fee for these checks, which can be passed on to the individual being screened.

One notable aspect of the bill is the provision that allows individuals to work as child care staff members while awaiting the results of their background checks, provided they are supervised at all times. This aims to address staffing shortages in child care facilities while maintaining safety protocols.

The bill has sparked discussions regarding its implications for child safety and employment practices in the child care sector. Supporters argue that it will expedite the hiring process and help alleviate workforce shortages, while critics express concerns about the potential risks of allowing unscreened individuals to work with children, even under supervision.

The legislation's significance lies in its potential to balance the need for thorough background checks with the urgent demand for child care workers. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its impact on child care operations and the safety of children in Michigan will be closely monitored. The next steps will involve further debates and possible amendments as it moves toward a vote.