BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR DMA EMPLOYEES

SB 161 requires the New Mexico Department of Military Affairs (DMA) to conduct state and national criminal background checks on all employees and volunteers who supervise minors in DMA youth programs, including the Youth Challenge, Job Challenge Academies, and Governor's Summer Program. It mandates fingerprinting for these checks, with applicants covering the cost, and restricts the use of results solely to DMA hiring decisions for minor-supervision roles. The bill prohibits employment or volunteering for individuals with convictions involving sex crimes, crimes against minors, or drug felonies, while allowing consideration of other relevant offenses. It also requires applicants to acknowledge their right to review and dispute background report details. This policy directly affects DMA staff and volunteers working with minors in specific youth programs.