A bipartisan bill backed by Kansas Senator Jerry Moran has cleared the U.S. Senate and is now headed to the President’s desk.

 

The Criminal History Access Act, introduced by Moran and Democratic Senator Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island, would give state Peace Officer Standards and Training offices access to the National Crime Information Center, or N-C-I-C.

 

Supporters say the expanded access would help improve the background-check and hiring process for local law enforcement officers by giving officials additional criminal history information when evaluating applicants.

 

Moran, a Republican who chairs the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Science and Justice, says strengthening the vetting process is important for communities that depend on law enforcement.

 

The legislation passed the Senate unanimously. Kansas Congressman Derek Schmidt introduced the House version, which passed in May.

 

The bill now goes to the President to be signed into law.