Back to News

Criminal Background Checks and Child Abuse Clearances for Employees and Volunteers

Published on

February 3, 2015

On October 22, 2014, House Bill 435/Act 153 of 2014 was signed into law and as of January 1, 2015 the law came into effect. This law addresses new background check requirements for employees and volunteers working directly with children. The law extends beyond paid employees so that it is applicable to unpaid volunteers who are “responsible for the welfare of a child or having direct contact with children.” Under Act 153, there are no exceptions for charitable organizations with 501(c)(3) status. 

Going forward, Pennsylvania law will now require that prospective employees and volunteers obtain a number of different types of background checks and any employer or administrator that intentionally fails to meet the requirements of Act 153 will commit a third-degree misdemeanor. Employers and organizations that use volunteers should assure that their employees understand their reporting obligations and how to report. Barley Snyder can assist in navigating Act 153’s requirements. For more information on compliance with Act 153, contact Tim Malloy at (484) 334-8371 or tmalloy@barley.com.


Related News

View More News
Press Release
October 8, 2025

Barley Snyder Partner Kevin Moore Honored as Berks Catholic 2025 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

For Immediate Release Reading, Pa. – Barley Snyder is proud to announce that partner Kevin A. Moore has been recognized as ...

Learn More
News Alert
October 3, 2025

Government Shutdown Suspends E-Verify

As of October 1, 2025, a federal government shutdown has resulted in lapses in funding for certain agencies, including U.S. C...

Learn More
News Alert
September 22, 2025

New $100,000 Fee for H-1B Visa Petitions 

On September 19, 2025, President Trump issued a proclamation titled Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers. Th...

Learn More

Other Upcoming Events

View All Upcoming Events
Oct
14
2:30 pm
-
6:00 pm
event
Location

2025 Harrisburg Business Seminar

Learn More
Oct
30
2:30 pm
-
6:00 pm
event
Location

2025 Lancaster Business Seminar

Learn More
Nov
12
2:30 pm
-
6:00 pm
event
Location

2025 Reading Business Seminar

Learn More

Get in Touch

Our attorneys, paralegals and staff look forward to hearing from you. Please reach out to let us know how we can help.

Get In Touch
RECOGNIZED IN
Super Lawyers
Best Law Firms US News
Best Lawyers