Guardian, conservator FBI background checks advanced

A proposal to update background check procedures for guardians and conservators received first-round approval from lawmakers April 9.

LB453, introduced by Bennington Sen. Wendy DeBoer, would require anyone nominated or applying to serve as a guardian or conservator to undergo a background check conducted by the Nebraska State Patrol using the FBI’s national background check system.

Under the bill, applicants would be responsible for the cost of background checks and fingerprinting. The Nebraska State Patrol also would be required to submit a report to the state court administrator containing the applicant’s criminal history details.

DeBoer said the bill would clarify that background checks for guardians and conservators must be conducted through the FBI’s national criminal history record information system, which can be accessed only if explicitly permitted by state law.

Additionally, she said, the FBI’s system would provide more comprehensive background checks and uncover any crimes committed in states outside of Nebraska.

LB453 advanced to select file on a vote of 36-0.