AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE DISCLOSURE OF AN OPEN INVESTIGATION OF ABUSE OR NEGLECT OR SEXUAL MISCONDUCT, INJURY OR RISK OF INJURY TO OR IMPAIRING THE MORALS OF A MINOR DURING THE HIRING PROCESS OF A SCHOOL EMPLOYEE.

HB 5327 requires schools to verify if job applicants are under investigation for abuse, neglect, or sexual misconduct before hiring staff with direct student contact. It applies to all public and charter schools, as well as nonpublic school operators. The bill mandates applicants to provide written authorization allowing schools to contact prior employers about pending investigations and requires employers to respond within 5 business days. Schools must also check with the state education department about any open cases involving applicants.