Swedish municipalities including Arvika kommun will gain expanded authority to conduct criminal record checks on job applicants under new legislation taking effect in early March 2026, according to local media reports. The law, reported by Arvika Nyheter and Östgöta Correspondenten, provides municipalities with greater tools to verify whether job seekers have criminal convictions or are currently suspected of crimes. Journalist Kerstin Herö covered the development for Arvika Nyheter, highlighting how the legislation will affect hiring practices in municipalities across Sweden.
The expanded authority comes as some municipalities, like Åtvidabergs kommun, have already implemented similar checks in specific sectors such as healthcare since 2025. Municipal politicians reportedly view the enhanced background check capabilities as a tool to ensure quality and appropriate placement of personnel in public sector positions.
a tool to ensure quality and that the right people are in the right place