Background checks could rise in Utah schools

SALT LAKE CITY -- Utah lawmakers are considering a bill that could impose more criminal background checks on school employees.

House Bill 81 proposes letting school districts and charter schools require employees to submit to periodic background checks "if reasonable cause exists."

It also gives schools the option to make the subjects of the checks shoulder the cost.

A House Committee approved the bill unanimously Tuesday.

Critics say it puts a financial burden on employees, as the checks can cost more than $70.

The sponsor of the bill is Rep. Sheryl Allen, a Republican from Bountiful.