Bill widens FBI background checks to contractors and licensed caregivers
Passed one chamberS. 1528Latest action
Sponsor: Richard J. Durbin · Senator · IL
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: CHILD Act of 2025
119th Congress
Topics: Crime & justice
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
The plain-language version comes first. The official text is always the reference.
The bill lets organizations request FBI background checks on contractors and licensed caregivers, not just direct employees.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill updates the 1993 National Child Protection Act, which lets certain organizations request FBI background checks on people working with children, the elderly, or people with disabilities. It expands eligibility beyond direct employees and volunteers to include contractors, outside company employees, and individuals licensed or certified to provide care.
Who does it affect?
Businesses and nonprofits serving children, elderly people, or people with disabilities gain broader screening ability. Contractors, licensed caregivers, and certified individuals in these fields may now face background checks that didn't previously apply to their work arrangement.
Why does it matter?
This closes a gap where people working closely with vulnerable populations through contract or licensing arrangements could avoid the background check process required of direct employees.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedApr 30, 2025
- Senate committee
- Senate vote
- HouseYou are here · Apr 22, 2026
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the Senate, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Held at the desk.