OLYMPIA – Washington is facing a shortage of qualified caregivers for individuals with physical or developmental disabilities, in part due to long wait times for applicant background checks.
Today the Governor signed into law HB 1385, sponsored by Rep. Jamila Taylor (D-Federal Way) that will make the process faster, more secure, and align state practices with national standards.
“We’ve got to get more qualified individuals into the workforce to make sure our developmentally disabled, seniors, and other vulnerable communities are provided for,” said Rep. Taylor. “At the same time, we need to make sure those who are working with our vulnerable communities are trustworthy, competent caregivers.”
The bill authorizes the Washington State Patrol to join 35 other states in formally implementing the National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact that allows the interstate sharing of criminal history records for noncriminal justice purposes.
Washington State Patrol is named as the official state agency for criminal history record exchange, allowing for centralized transmission of records and related information, and better coordination with other states and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
“This is a great example of using technology and collaboration to give our communities an added layer of protection,” Taylor said. “It ensures that the background check process remains fair, secure, and transparent.”
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