A bill that is being by discussed by Washington lawmakers would end the automatic disqualification of people with certain criminal convictions from working with vulnerable populations in health care or home care. Sponsors of the bill say the effort could address the shortage of qualified caretakers and encourage people with convictions to take charge of their lives. Specifically, House Bill 1411 would allow people with certain crimes on their record to be eligible to apply for jobs with the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) at long-term care facilities or as in-home caretakers. Although the bill has support, some are urging sponsors to add more safeguards to protect the most vulnerable from abuse and neglect.
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