By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, Mo. – Criminal background checks will be required for some new employees of Missouri school districts beginning Saturday.
The new rule is contained in one of a few state laws taking effect with the start of the new year. Most Missouri laws take effect in late August, but a few begin each year on January first.
Another new law expands the use of DNA profiling.
All felons will have to provide DNA samples before leaving prison. The samples were previously required only from people convicted of violent felonies or sex crimes.
The state is imposing fees on those convicted of felonies and misdemeanors to pay for the tests.
Another new law prohibits lawsuits blaming food companies when people gain weight. And many insurance providers must start treating mental and physical ailments the same.