Senate panel OKs measure requiring background checks

A House bill that would require criminal background checks for personal care attendants who receive public funds passed the Senate Judiciary, Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Committee Thursday.

HB64, sponsored by Rep. Fred Hunsaker, R-Logan, would require that any personal care attendant hired to care for someone, like the elderly, must go through a criminal background check if public funds are used to help pay for the service.

Representatives from state and local aging services said cases of elderly abuse have increased between 2003 and 2004, and the bill would help safeguard against criminals taking advantage of elderly who choose personal home care instead of living in a care center.

The bill passed unanimously and will move to the Senate floor for further debate.