PA Criminal Records Check Act 34: What You Must Know

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services enforces regulations concerning child protective services. Prospective employees or volunteers working directly with children often require a pennsylvania criminal records check act 34 clearance, a requirement outlined within the broader framework of child abuse prevention initiatives. Understanding the specific procedures and implications of obtaining clearance through the Pennsylvania State Police is crucial for compliance and ensuring the safety of vulnerable populations.

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Understanding the Pennsylvania Criminal Records Check Act 34

This document provides a clear and concise explanation of the Pennsylvania Criminal Records Check Act 34, focusing on what you need to know about it. We will address its purpose, who needs it, how to obtain it, and important related information.

Purpose of Act 34

The primary purpose of the Pennsylvania Criminal Records Check Act 34, also known as the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check (SP4-164), is to ensure the safety and well-being of children in the Commonwealth. It requires specific individuals to undergo a background check to determine if they have any criminal history that would disqualify them from working or volunteering with children. The pennsylvania criminal records check act 34 aims to prevent individuals with a history of child abuse or related offenses from having unsupervised contact with minors.

Who Needs an Act 34 Clearance?

Generally, the following individuals are required to obtain a pennsylvania criminal records check act 34 clearance:

• Employees of child care services: This includes individuals working in daycare centers, preschools, and other facilities that provide care for children.
• School employees: Teachers, administrators, and support staff in both public and private schools are often required to have this clearance.
• Volunteers working with children: Individuals volunteering with organizations that serve children, such as sports teams, youth groups, and mentoring programs, may need to obtain an Act 34 clearance.
• Individuals seeking foster or adoptive placements: Anyone looking to become a foster parent or adopt a child is required to undergo this background check.
• Other individuals as required by law or employers: Specific professions, organizations, or employers may require an Act 34 clearance as part of their hiring or volunteer screening process.

It is important to check with your employer, volunteer organization, or licensing agency to determine if you are required to obtain a pennsylvania criminal records check act 34 clearance.

How to Obtain a Pennsylvania Criminal Records Check Act 34 Clearance

The process for obtaining a pennsylvania criminal records check act 34 clearance is relatively straightforward. You can apply online through the Pennsylvania State Police PATCH (Pennsylvania Access To Criminal History) system.

1. Online Application: Visit the PATCH website (epatch.state.pa.us) and create an account.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the online application form, providing accurate personal information, including your name, address, date of birth, and social security number.
3. Payment: Pay the required fee. The fee is subject to change, so it's always best to check the PATCH website for the current fee.
4. Review and Submit: Review your application carefully before submitting it.
5. Receive Your Results: You will typically receive your results online within a few days. However, processing times can vary.

Understanding Your Results

The results of your pennsylvania criminal records check act 34 will indicate whether you have any criminal history recorded in the Pennsylvania State Police database. The results will either be:

• "No Record": This means that your name did not match any criminal record in the Pennsylvania State Police database.
• "Record Found": This means that your name matched a criminal record in the Pennsylvania State Police database. The details of the record will be provided.

If a "Record Found" is indicated, it doesn't automatically disqualify you from working or volunteering with children. The employer or organization will need to review the record to determine if the offenses are relevant to the safety of children.

Validity and Renewals

• The validity period for a pennsylvania criminal records check act 34 clearance varies depending on the employer or organization's policy. It's generally recommended that employers/organizations re-certify employees every 3-5 years or as required.
• Check with your employer or the relevant organization to determine their specific requirements for renewal.
• Keep a copy of your clearance for your records.

Important Considerations

• Accuracy of Information: Ensure the information you provide on your application is accurate. Providing false information can lead to delays or rejection.
• Federal Background Checks: The pennsylvania criminal records check act 34 is separate from the FBI fingerprint-based background check. You may need to obtain both clearances, depending on your specific situation.
• Out-of-State Residents: If you are an out-of-state resident applying for a position in Pennsylvania, you may still be required to obtain an Act 34 clearance.
• Cost: Always verify the current cost of the clearance on the official Pennsylvania State Police PATCH website. Fees are subject to change.

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Alright, that wraps up the basics of the pennsylvania criminal records check act 34. Hopefully, you've got a clearer picture of what it's all about. Now go on and get those clearances sorted!