Colorado applicants must pay for fingerprint-based criminal history checks

On April 16, 2025, the Colorado State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 146, aimed at enhancing the process of conducting fingerprint-based criminal history record checks for applicants and licensees in various sectors. This bill seeks to streamline the verification process while ensuring public safety through thorough background checks.

The primary provisions of Senate Bill 146 require that applicants, licensees, or local government entities bear the costs associated with the fingerprint-based criminal history checks. Upon submitting an application, individuals must have their fingerprints taken by either a local law enforcement agency or a third-party vendor approved by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The bill mandates that these fingerprints be submitted to the CBI for a comprehensive background check, which will also involve forwarding the fingerprints to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Notably, the bill stipulates that if a third-party vendor is utilized for fingerprinting, they must use CBI-approved Livescan equipment for electronic capture. Furthermore, these vendors are prohibited from retaining the applicant's information for more than thirty days after collection, ensuring privacy and data security.

Debate surrounding Senate Bill 146 has focused on the implications of requiring applicants to cover the costs of their background checks. Proponents argue that this measure will enhance accountability and streamline the application process, while opponents express concerns about the potential financial burden on individuals seeking licenses, particularly in lower-income communities.

The economic implications of the bill could be significant, as it may affect the accessibility of certain professions that require licensing, potentially limiting opportunities for those unable to afford the associated costs. Socially, the bill aims to bolster public safety by ensuring that individuals in sensitive positions undergo thorough background checks, which could foster greater trust in various sectors.

As discussions continue, experts suggest that the bill's passage could lead to more standardized practices across the state regarding criminal history checks, potentially influencing similar legislative efforts in other states. The outcome of Senate Bill 146 remains to be seen, but its introduction marks a critical step in addressing the balance between public safety and individual accessibility in the licensing process.