House Bill 943 relating to Background Screening by Rep. Doug Holder (R-Sarasota) was passed favorably yesterday by the Health and Human Services Subcommittee. This bill proposes to correct glitches in current law dealing with the requirements for the background screening of individuals who deal with vulnerable populations.
The bill incorporates recommendations from the Governor’s Workgroup on Background Screenings and the Department of Elder Affairs to maintain safety precautions for vulnerable citizens while removing some bureaucratic and cost barriers for family care givers and certain volunteers.
Alliance for Aging President and CEO Max Rothman praised Rep. Holder for his leadership on the background screening bill stating, “This will effectively address issues concerning caregiver and volunteer participation in providing services to elders in need throughout Florida.”
“This is an important fix to ensure that every dollar possible is spent on services for the frail elders of Florida,” said Kristen Longmore, Executive Director of Elder Options of Florida.
The bill’s next stop is the Criminal Justice Subcommittee.
