In early 2022, Governor Whitmer signed House Bill 4325 to standardize criminal background checks for most people working in Michigan’s senior health field. We explain what employers and staff should expect in the future.
House Bill 4325 is an amendment to the Older Michiganians Act that mandates “aging agencies” must conduct criminal background checks on key team members, including employees, subcontractors, and volunteers. The requirement applies to individuals who may have:
In-Person Contact with Clients
In-Home Contact with Clients
Access to Personal Property
Access to Confidential Information
Specifically, all applicable employers must run a criminal history check (such as an ICHAT search via the Michigan State Police) and a national and state sex offender registry search. Furthermore, the employers must update the criminal background checks every three years and maintain all applicable documentation. The overall goal is to increase protection for one of the most vulnerable populations in Michigan.
These regulations cast a wide net, affecting hundreds of organizations in the senior care industry across the state and impacting countless staff members. Many agencies are turning to us, one of Michigan’s own background check companies, for guidance on implementing screening in an effective, efficient, and legally compliant manner. They are helping senior care organizations across the state navigate the recent changes and adopt new screening policies as needed. Since 1984, we have helped employers make informed hiring decisions while operating within local, state, and federal regulations. They serve organizations large and small from a wide range of industries with an emphasis on integrity and quality.
