New Florida law requires enhanced background checks for school volunteers

by Brianna Brownlee, WJXT - News4JAX

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A new Florida law is now in effect, mandating that school volunteers pass enhanced background checks to ensure the safety and security of students.

The bill, signed into law during the 2023 state legislative session, officially took effect on March 1.

The new requirements apply to both new and existing volunteers who work with students.

Previously, volunteers were required to complete a Level 1 background check, which is name-based only. However, the new law requires volunteers to pass a Level 2 background check, which relies on fingerprints.

Read more: https://www.news4jax.com/news/2025/03/05/new-florida-law-requires-enhanced-background-checks-for-school-volunteers/

School volunteer background screenings will intensify

by Marc Valero - Highlands News-Sun

A more intense background screening will go into effect March 1, 2025 in Florida for those who volunteer in public schools increasing the cost of the screening.

School Board of Highlands County Coordinator of Communications John Varady said the School Board has already been following the updated screening requirements for employees and will begin utilizing the new screening procedures for volunteers in 2025, prior to the March 1st date.

Read more: https://www.midfloridanewspapers.com/highlands_news-sun/news/school-volunteer-background-screenings-will-intensify/article_56c636dc-c15e-11ef-9fbe-7f851693f411.html