New Mass. law requires fingerprinting teachers

"Teachers, workers at child-care centers, and school bus drivers are among those who will soon be required to submit fingerprints for criminal background checks under a new state law. Governor Deval Patrick signed the bill this week, saying that it closes a loophole in state law and will help protect children. Under the new law, the fingerprints will be submitted to the State Police for a state criminal history check and be forwarded to the FBI for a national background check. All newly hired teachers, bus drivers, and others working at schools will be required to undergo the background checks before the start of the next school year."