PM423.pdf

This is a Policy Memorandum #423 issued by the State of California's Department of Developmental Services, Residential Services Division, specifically addressing employment practices within developmental centers. The policy memo provides comprehensive guidelines for hiring and employment screening, focusing on preventing individuals with certain criminal histories from working in positions that have direct client contact. The document outlines specific criteria for evaluating applicants with felony or misdemeanor convictions, including a detailed list of disqualifying offenses such as sexual crimes, murder, battery, child abuse, and other serious criminal actions.

The memorandum establishes a systematic approach for reviewing criminal backgrounds, with the Senior Special Investigator conducting initial reviews and the Executive Director making final employment determinations. The policy requires background checks through the California Department of Justice and provides a nuanced framework for assessing an applicant's suitability, considering factors like the nature of the position, recency and severity of the offense, whether the offense was isolated or repeated, the applicant's age at the time of the offense, and prior criminal history. Additionally, the document specifies situations requiring additional information gathering, such as arrests pending trial or for positions with regular client access, while also noting certain convictions that should not be considered in hiring decisions, like judicially sealed records or dismissed cases.