Last Updated on March 20, 2025

In an effort to improve student safety, Florida recently enacted a new law requiring school volunteers to pass enhanced background checks. This legislation, known as Senate Bill 676, was signed into law in the 2023 state legislative session and took effect on March 1, 2025. The law introduces stricter screening measures for volunteers, ensuring that individuals working closely with students meet heightened security standards.

Why Are Background Checks for School Volunteers Important?

Schools are entrusted with the safety and well-being of students, and volunteers often play a significant role in these environments. Conducting comprehensive background checks is essential to:

1. Ensure Student Safety: Enhanced screening helps identify individuals with violent, sexual, or drug-related criminal histories who could pose a risk to students.
2. Maintain School Integrity: By thoroughly vetting volunteers, schools build trust with parents, staff, and the community.
3. Reduce Liability: Enhanced background checks provide an added layer of legal protection for schools by demonstrating due diligence in safeguarding students.

What Does Florida’s New Law Require?

Under this new law, school volunteers must now complete a Level Two Background Screening, as opposed to the previous Level One Background Screening. A Level Two Background Screening includes:

• Fingerprinting to conduct a more thorough check of state and national criminal databases.
• Screening for serious offenses and past convictions such as violent crimes, sexual offenses and drug-related charges.
• Issuance of a Level Two ID Badge for approved volunteers, valid for five years.

This process replaces the previous Level One Background Check, which relied solely on name-based searches and provided fewer comprehensive results. While the enhanced screening process comes with a higher cost, it represents a critical investment in student safety.

How Can MyHRScreens Help?

Navigating new background check requirements can be complex, but MyHRScreens simplifies the process for volunteer organizations. We offer:

• Compliance Support: MyHRScreens stays up to date with state regulations like Senate Bill 676, helping organizations remain compliant.
• Flexible Solutions: We provide customized screening packages tailored to different organizations’ unique needs and budgets.
• Integrations to maximize your organization and volunteer’s time and efficiency.
• And More!

With the safety of students at stake, ensuring that volunteers undergo appropriate background checks is a vital step. MyHRScreens is committed to supporting Florida schools by delivering reliable screening services that prioritize security and compliance.

For more information on how MyHRScreens can assist your organization with volunteer background checks, contact us at 866-899-8970 ext. 118, Klewis@myhrscreens.com. Or, schedule a convenient consultation below: