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Legislature OKs criminal background checks for coaches
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School coaches, from the football field to the debate club podium, would be subjected to criminal background checks under a bill passed by the Legislature and headed to Gov. Tim Pawlenty.
The coaches would face the same background checks as classroom teachers throughout Minnesota. All licensed teachers undergo criminal background checks, but only some school districts also require the checks before a coach is hired.
"This is a consistent policy throughout the state," said Rep. Karla Bigham, DFL-Cottage Grove, the House sponsor of the measure, which passed 112 to 15. It passed the Senate 64 to 0 earlier this week. Approval came on a compromise version of the bill worked out after slightly different versions passed earlier in each house.
As part of the compromise, volunteers such as occasional tutors or parents who might read to a class will not be required to undergo checks.
The measure was prompted by several incidents in which non-faculty members were involved in inappropriate situations. But Bigham said it also grew out of the increased use of unpaid volunteers and non-faculty members to assist in many functions at schools.
Despite the overwhelming vote, opponents suggested the requirement would put an undue burden on some school districts and discourage qualified people from participating.
Pawlenty said Thursday that he supports the measure.
MARK BRUNSWICK
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Current state office holders
Governor: Tim Pawlenty
One of only a few prominent Republicans to win a competitive re-election contest in the Democratic sweep of 2006, Tim Pawlenty is widely seen as politically shrewd and naturally likable.
- Lt. Governor: Carol Molnau
- Secretary of State: Mark Ritchie
- Attorney General: Lori Swanson
- State Auditor: Rebecca Otto
Minnesota's political giants: Learn more about the men and women who have shaped Minnesota's political history.
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