Georgia does not have the capability for state level monitoring on criminal background clearances on prospective foster and adoptive families or those approved by private agencies in the state. Criminal records checks are done on all staff and potential parents, including staff of child placing agencies. ORS monitors the criminal checks for child placement agency staff. DHR policy requires a criminal record check, complete with fingerprints, for all adoptive and foster parents and all adults age 18 and over, residing in the home either permanently or temporarily, who have access to the children.

The Georgia Crime Information Center performs the criminal background clearances. Any reported offenses must be fully explored with the parties involved. In accordance with ASFA guidelines, policy details the offenses for which an approval shall not be granted.

Obtaining FBI clearances is an area DHR continues to pursue.

Georgia licensing rules and regulations require:

• All private agencies must obtain satisfactory criminal records checks on prospective foster parents and any adults in the home 18 years of age or older prior to placing a child in the home.

• All private agencies providing group care must obtain satisfactory criminal records checks on the director and employees.