Delaware will begin implementing updated state and federal criminal background check requirements for firefighters on March 2, 2027, under legislation signed by Gov. Matt Meyer in September.
Senate Bill 325 requires covered applicants and current members to submit fingerprints and other identifying information to the State Bureau of Identification for Delaware and FBI criminal history reports. The State Fire Prevention Commission will review the records to determine whether an individual is eligible to serve. The law covers both volunteer and paid firefighters.
The legislation also establishes ongoing criminal history monitoring, including information available through the Rap Back system. The commission must notify the appropriate fire or EMS organization when a covered applicant or member is prohibited from serving.
Disqualifying offenses include violent felonies, specified theft and fraud offenses, sex crimes and controlled substance offenses. The law allows the commission to consider waivers in extraordinary circumstances when an applicant or member establishes that their service would not jeopardize public health or safety.
Certain associate members whose duties do not involve organizational funds, emergency response or public safety interactions are exempt unless the commission determines a background check is necessary. Inactive lifetime and honorary members may also qualify for exemptions.
Under the legislation, existing members covered by the requirements must obtain the criminal history records within 24 months of the law’s September 3, 2026, enactment.