The Senate unanimously approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Cynthia A. Coyne to protect Rhode Island youth. Meant to help churches and other religious institutions protect children from people who have a history of abuse or other dangerous crimes, the legislation requires anyone 18 or older who is seeking employment or volunteer opportunities with routine contact with children to submit to a national criminal background check if asked. The cost would be the applicant’s responsibility. The legislation also protects churches and religious organizations from liability for refusing to accept an employee or volunteer based on information received as part of the screening.

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