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	Bill Would Allow Children's Groups to Access FBI Background Checks on New Employees By Delen Goldberg The Post-Standard July 2, 2009 http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2009/07/childrens_groups_cant_access_f.html A person applying to be a summer camp counselor in New York could have been convicted of assault in Ohio or sexual abuse in Florida, and camp officials would have no way of knowing. A loophole in federal law prevents camps, children's groups and other non-profits that work with children from accessing federal criminal background checks on new employees and volunteers. Groups can check the state's criminal database, but it doesn't list crimes committed out of state. "The critical information being withheld could allow a predator to work" with children, said U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y. "Our local law enforcement has access to the federal files. Why can't our organizations?" Schumer came to Syracuse today to unveil new legislation that would close the loophole. The Child Protection Improvements Act of 2009 would give children's groups universal access to nationwide background searches. If a conviction or arrest pops up that would bar the person from becoming a foster or adoptive parent, the potential employer would be notified. "Those standards are good standards," Schumer said. "They're not higher than they should be." More than 30 child advocates and local officials surrounded Schumer as he explained his bill. Dr. Ann Botash, director of University Hospital's Child Abuse Referral and Evaluation program, called the legislation "impressive." "To be able to know we have a better way to limit access is the best way to prevent abuse," she said.
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