SB 143

Abstract

Amends the School Code. Provides that a non-public elementary or secondary school may not obtain "Non-public School Recognition" status unless (i) the school requires all applicants for employment with the school, after July 1, 2007, to authorize a fingerprint-based criminal history records check as a condition of employment to determine if such applicants have been convicted of specified criminal or drug offenses and (ii) the school performs a check of the Statewide Sex Offender Database for each applicant for employment, after July 1, 2007, to determine whether the applicant has been adjudicated a sex offender. Provides that no non-public school may obtain recognition status that knowingly employs a person, hired after July 1, 2007, for whom a Department of State Police and Federal Bureau of Investigation fingerprint-based criminal history records check and a Statewide Sex Offender Database check has not been initiated or who has been convicted of certain criminal or drug offenses. Contains provisions concerning a fee for the criminal history records check and reimbursement, confidentiality, and checks of employees of persons or firms holding contracts with the school. Effective July 1, 2007.