By Adam Pagnucco.
In the wake of a report by the county’s Office of Inspector General on problems in MCPS’s background checks on its employees, one of my readers raised the issue of whether the county government also does background checks. After all, many county government employees come into contact with children as do MCPS employees. County Public Information Director Mary Anderson graciously – and quickly – answered my questions about the county’s background checks. My questions and her answers are printed below.
Is there an MCG-wide policy or is it left up to individual departments?
There is no MCG-wide background check policy. Individual departments that have positions requiring background investigations or suitability determinations conduct their background checks in accordance with their department policies and processes.
Can you describe Montgomery County government’s background check process(es)?
Depending on the position, background checks may involve criminal history record checks (done via fingerprinting), child sex abuse clearances, credit history checks, drug screenings, and review of motor vehicle history reports. Background investigations for candidates of public safety positions include additional screening requirements and processes.
Which occupations are checked?
Occupations that involve a background check during the recruitment process include: police officers; bus operators; firefighters; correctional officers; positions that care for or supervise children, dependent adults, or animals; and positions that work in drug and alcohol treatment programs, to name a few.
And are current employees re-checked later after any initial screenings?
The level of monitoring and “re-checking” of employees depends on applicable laws and regulations, as well as the individual department’s policies and procedures.