BISMARCK — The state House reversed itself Saturday and approved background checks for child care workers, with one supporter chiding opponents for calling the bill “intrusive.”
The vote on Senate Bill 2162 was 71-21. The House had killed the bill Friday but supporters worked to get it reconsidered. They included Gov. John Hoeven, who visited with House leadership Friday and asked that it be brought back.
The bill had failed by two votes on Friday. Some who voted “no” said later that the explanation they had heard was confusing.
The bill contains $200,000 to help fund the background checks.
“This is really a matter of public safety,” said Rep. Scot Kelsh, D-Fargo, arguing for the bill Saturday.
The bill requires new child care licensees to get a criminal background check. People already licensed are not subject to the law and people who are caring for a “direct relative” also are exempt.
Among the opponents was Rep. Robin Weisz, R-Hurdsfield, who said the bill was “intrusive” during the House debate Friday. He also had said in an interview that it was an “invasive policy that wasn’t going to really make a difference” and that existing sex offender registration laws were protection enough.
Weisz was absent Saturday for the revote, when Rep. Larry Klemin, R-Bismarck, said, “Well, let me ask you this question: How intrusive is sexual molestation of a young child?”