comprehensive-background-check-pre-service-check-requirements (PROVISIONAL HIRE)

Reason(s) for non-compliance: • The Lead Agency does not require a qualifying result on a prospective staff member from a FBI criminal background check or an in-state criminal background check with fingerprints before they begin work, as required by 98.43(d)(4). (Plan Questions 5.7.12a and 5.7.12b) Overall Target Completion Date: 07/31/2026 Action Step Number Action Step Description Target Completion Date 1 DHS/DFD is working with DCF to update the rules. DCF is amending the Manual of Requirements for Child Care Centers, N.J.A.C. 3A:52, to align with CCDF rules. While current regulations for centers allow a period of up to two weeks after new staff begin to complete all background check components and staff must be supervised and not left alone to care for children, the new rule will require centers to complete background checks for staff prior to employment. 07/31/2026