PM423.pdf

This is a Policy Memorandum (#423) from the California Department of Developmental Services' Residential Services Division regarding employment practices within state developmental centers. The policy, dated July 25, 1994, revises a previous version from April 22, 1994, and establishes strict guidelines for employment screening at developmental centers to protect client safety and well-being.

The memorandum outlines specific hiring restrictions, particularly regarding criminal history. It prohibits hiring individuals with certain felony convictions listed in Section 6, including sexual offenses, murder, battery, elder abuse, and other violent crimes. For other felony convictions not explicitly listed, the policy establishes a detailed evaluation process involving background checks conducted by the California Department of Justice and review by Senior Special Investigators and Executive Directors. The policy also addresses misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude and specifies certain circumstances that cannot be considered in hiring decisions, such as marijuana possession convictions or expunged records. Independent contractors and subcontractors are subject to similar background check requirements based on the nature of service, frequency of client contact, and contract length.