Quality childcare is a foundational component to any community and we are currently in the midst of a childcare crisis. Staffing is already a challenge and with pandemic protocols heavily limiting many of our normal policies and procedures we are dealing with major staffing concerns. The current state of the background check system adds another hurdle, and some times road block, to hiring quality and capable staff members. The process is often unclear and extremely lengthy causing qualified applicants to move on with their job search before we can offer a position. I believe extensive background checks are vital to the work we do and because of their importance the system needs to be more efficient and accessible. I believe background checks already performed by a licensed center or day home should be transferable for the length of time they are are valid. This would eliminate numerous background checks for applicants that are looking to switch positions or locations. This would also greatly assist with the substitute shortage that we experience. Our economy is dependent on fully staffed childcare centers and day homes. Without proper staffing we are forced to close classrooms and limit our scope of care. Please consider the feedback from professionals in our field as decisions are made about a vital part of our childcare system. Thank you for your time and consideration.