3 versions

CosmeticWhat changed in ENGROSSED IN SENATEcompared with REPORTED TO SENATE (Jul 28, 2025)

Technical corrections only. The v3 version of S. 1528, now titled "AN ACT," reflects its passage in the Senate on April 21, 2026, and updates the congressional session from 1st to 2nd. There are no substantive changes to the bill's text or its proposed amendments to the National Child Protection Act of 1993.

S. 1528119th CongressIntroduced Apr 30, 2025

CHILD Act of 2025

Passed SenateCrime and Law EnforcementSubstantive

View bill text

Sponsor: Sen. Durbin, Richard J. [D-IL]
Committees: Judiciary Committee (primary)
Last action: Apr 22, 2026

Bottom line

The bill expands federal background check requirements to a wider range of individuals, including contractors and licensed professionals, who work with vulnerable populations, aiming to enhance safety.

What it actually does

This bill amends the National Child Protection Act of 1993 to significantly broaden the scope of individuals for whom qualified entities (businesses and organizations working with vulnerable populations) can request background checks. It specifically expands the definition of 'covered individual' to include contractors, employees or volunteers of entities under contract with a qualified entity, and individuals who are licensed or certified, or seeking to be licensed or certified, by a qualified entity.

Proponents argue

Supporters argue that this bill closes critical loopholes in existing child protection laws, ensuring that all individuals who interact with vulnerable populations through various professional capacities, including independent contractors and licensed professionals, undergo necessary background checks. This proactive measure is seen as essential for preventing abuse and neglect by significantly expanding the safety net and providing greater peace of mind to families and organizations.

Opponents contend

Critics might express concerns about the potential for increased administrative burden and costs on businesses, non-profit organizations, and licensing bodies due to the expanded background check requirements. Some may also raise privacy concerns regarding the broader collection and use of personal information, or argue that the expansion could lead to delays in service provision or create unnecessary barriers for qualified individuals seeking to work with vulnerable populations.

The bill is exceptionally short and its core changes are clearly articulated, making it highly accessible for any reader to understand its direct impact quickly.

Section 2

Expansion of 'Covered Individual' Definition for Background Checks

prominently featuredstraightforward

This provision amends Section 5(9)(B) of the National Child Protection Act of 1993 to broaden the categories of individuals subject to background checks. Previously, the Act primarily covered employees and volunteers directly with a qualified entity. The amendment now includes individuals who contract with a qualified entity, individuals employed by or volunteering with an entity that is under contract with a qualified entity, and individuals who are licensed or certified (or seeking to be) by a qualified entity. This ensures a wider array of professionals interacting with vulnerable populations are vetted.

GroupImpactMechanismScale

GroupBusinesses and organizations (qualified entities) working with vulnerable populationsImpactIncreased ability to request background checks for a broader range of personnel.MechanismStatutory amendment to 34 U.S.C. 40104(9)(B).ScaleBroad, applies nationwide to all qualified entities and their expanded network of personnel.

GroupContractors, employees/volunteers of contracted entities, and individuals seeking licensure/certification by qualified entitiesImpactSubject to mandatory background checks.MechanismExpanded definition of 'covered individual'.ScaleSignificant, affects a large number of professionals and service providers.

GroupVulnerable populations (e.g., children, elderly, disabled)ImpactEnhanced protection from potential abuse or neglect.MechanismBroader screening of individuals interacting with them.ScalePositive, potentially reducing incidents of harm.

Supporters argue

Supporters argue this expansion is crucial for closing existing gaps in child protection, ensuring that all individuals in positions of trust with vulnerable populations are properly vetted, regardless of their specific employment or contractual relationship. This strengthens the overall safety framework and provides a more comprehensive approach to safeguarding vulnerable individuals.

Critics contend

Critics might contend that expanding the scope of background checks could lead to unnecessary administrative burdens and increased costs for smaller organizations and independent contractors, potentially hindering service delivery or creating barriers to entry for qualified professionals. They may also argue that existing mechanisms are sufficient or that the expansion could lead to discriminatory practices.

Tradeoffs

This provision balances the desire for increased safety and protection for vulnerable populations against potential increases in administrative overhead, costs, and possible delays for individuals seeking to work in these fields. It also navigates the tension between comprehensive screening and individual privacy concerns.

About this analysis. AI-Generated from the official bill text and available committee reports. Gaps in available data are noted explicitly. Verify important details with the official Congress.gov record.