Heffley’s Amendment to Protect Children on College Campuses Passes
HARRISBURG – An amendment proposed by Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-Carbon) that would require all college and university employees who come in contact with children to obtain background checks passed the House on Tuesday 129-57.
The amendment is attached to Senate Bill 1156 which updates background check requirements and makes technical changes to the Child Protection Services Law.
“My amendment seeks to apply the same standards to Pennsylvania’s colleges and universities as those that other non profits, public schools and church groups have been required to follow. This amendment will protect children. I believe we should do all we can do to ensure the safety and security of our children on college campuses,” said Heffley.
The amendment removes the exemption that currently exists in the Child Protective Services Law which exempted college professors and staff from the background check requirement.
“You can’t put a value on the impact of abuse on the life of a child. Any costs incurred by colleges and universities to comply with this law are minor compared to the potential damages that would be sustained by child abuse,” he added.
The bill awaits a vote on final consideration.
Representative Doyle Heffley
122nd District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Morgan Dux
717.260.6695
mdux@pahousegop.com
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