Senate passes substitute for SB67 to streamline background checks for home‑care workers

The Delaware Senate unanimously passed Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 67 on Jan. 29, a measure intended to streamline and strengthen criminal background checks for home‑care workers while protecting consumers.

Senator Hoffner, sponsor of the substitute, said the bill codifies that a criminal‑history report obtained through the Background Check Center will be valid for one year from the applicant’s last fingerprinting. Under the change, home‑care agencies may rely on a single report for any prospective employer during that year, reducing duplication and cost for workers who move among multiple agencies. The bill also directs the Department to adopt regulations requiring use of the RapBack system to capture and notify employers of subsequent qualifying arrests or convictions — providing ongoing notification critical to public safety, the sponsor said.

Supporters said the change was reached through 18 months of stakeholder meetings with agencies and providers and that it balances worker mobility, administrative burden and consumer protections. The measure passed the Senate after roll call and was declared passed.

Next steps: If enrolled and signed, agencies will implement the one‑year validity period and RapBack notification requirements through administrative rules and coordination with the Background Check Center and SBI.