What may seem like a standard and practical procedure for employers working with our older generations will now become a mandatory law in 2022.
Effective this year, the Older Michiganians Act will mandate local agencies on aging to conduct criminal background checks for new and existing employees, subcontractors, and volunteers that have “in-person client contact, in-home client contact, access to a client’s personal property, or access to confidential client information.” The law requires each agency to conduct a criminal history check, such as an ICHAT search through the Michigan State Police, as well as a national and state sex offender registry search.
In a continuing effort to protect our seniors, local agencies will also be required to update the criminal background checks every three years. Additionally, each agency will be required to maintain documentation of all criminal backgrounds, including a list of all paid and volunteer staff that are subject to mandatory background checks.
Communities depend on local agencies to care for our aging generations in a safe and reliable manner. This amendment to the Older Michiganians Act will help to ensure that Michigan seniors are not being cared for by potentially dangerous or deceptive individuals.
Tyler Burk is an associate attorney with Grewal Law PLLC. His practice areas include general civil litigation, personal injury, and criminal defense.
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