SB 6255-S - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/13/04)

Finds that some states have recently developed comprehensive criminal history record information background check programs. These programs focus on making criminal history record information background checks easily accessible to employers and prospective employees and have eliminated long response times. It is the intent of this act to study advances with criminal history record information background check programs in other states and determine what is needed to implement similar programs in Washington state.

Provides that, in consultation with the Washington State Patrol, the Washington association of sheriffs and police chiefs shall conduct a study on criminal background checks. The study shall focus on how Washington state can reduce delays in the criminal background check processing time and how Washington state can make criminal background checks more accessible and efficient.

Requires the findings and recommendations from the study to be presented to the legislature no later than December 31, 2004.

Appropriates the sum of forty-five thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2004, from the general fund to the Washington association of sheriffs and police chiefs for the purposes of this act.