Arizona recently passed Senate Bill (SB) 1242, which changes the process for applicants and employees of assisted living facilities and nursing homes to obtain a fingerprint clearance card. The changes apply to those who provide medical services, nursing services, behavioral health services, health-related services, or other supportive services to senior citizens.
More specifically, SB 1242 now prohibits applicants or employees with felony convictions involving violence or financial fraud from obtaining a fingerprint clearance card. SB 1242 outlines 46 crimes that would fall under the definition of felony convictions involving violence or financial fraud.
Additionally, the Arizona Board of Examiners of Nursing Care Institution Administrators (NCIA) Board now requires applicants requesting an initial certification to submit fingerprints to the NCIA Board for state and federal criminal records checks. As such, this allows the Arizona Department of Public Safety to exchange fingerprint data with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The purpose of this is to promote a more streamlined approach between agencies by encouraging communication, especially when it comes to identifying issues in the background check process.
Given these recent developments, nursing homes and assisted living facilities should consider revisiting and updating their hiring process involving fingerprinting clearance cards.
If you have questions, contact the Employers Council Member Experience team.
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