AB-506 Requirements

California AB-506 became effective on January 1, 2022 and outlines requirements for training, background checks and policies for “youth serving organizations.” The definition of “youth service organization” is not clear but likely includes churches and ministries.

What Are the Background Screening Requirements?

AAB-506 requires ALL employees, even part time staff, of Youth Serving Organizations submit to a fingerprint background check (whether or not they work directly with kids).  It also requires all “regular volunteers” who are in direct contact with or supervise children for more than 16 hours a month or 32 hours a year must also have a fingerprint background check.

State DOJ and FBI fingerprint background checks are required for employment and volunteers that meet requirements above.

Live Scan is the method of conducting fingerprint State DOJ  and Federal background checks. 

To request a Live Scan, your ministry or organization must register as a requesting agency with the DOJ. Upon registration, your ministry will receive an Originating Requesting Agency Identifier (ORI number), which enables you to request Live Scan background checks through the California DOJ.

Mandated Reporters

Who are mandatory reporters?
California mandated reporters

Are volunteers considered mandated reporters?
Volunteers of children in youth serving organizations are not mandated reporters BUT are required to have training in the identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect AND are encouraged to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect.  Volunteers whose profession is defined as a mandated reporter may be considered a mandated reporter (please check with your legal counsel).

Policies and Procedures

AB-506 also requires organizations to have policies and procedures to prevent and report abuse. These policies and procedures need to be inspected and updated yearly.  Suggested policies for you org:  volunteer vetting, child/youth supervision, and child sexual abuse reporting policies are just a few we recommend.  

Training 

AB-506 requires mandatory reporter training to be completed by ALL employees and “regular” volunteers who work with youth.

MinistryDefender AB 506 Training:

Our Online Sex Abuse Prevention training not only fulfills AB 506 training requirements but also enables you to 

• Easily monitor who has completed the training. 

• You can  establish a two-year auto-renewal cycle, ensuring that your team remains trained and compliant with the law's requirements.

• Print off individual certificate

• Boots on the ground presenters. (Experts in their field)

• Volunteer Training is 90 minutes in length

• Employment Training is Two hours in length

• Not to mention your org is receiving  the best training for your organization.