New Jersey township requires background checks for recreation workers

An ordinance that requires criminal background checks for all personnel who work in youth programs that use public facilities has been approved in West Deptford Township, New Jersey. According to the South Jersey Times, the township committee's action covers all recreation employees and volunteers, as well as staffers for sports activities that are played on public fields or that receive funding from the local government. "That goes for baseball, softball, soccer, football, lacrosse, et cetera," Mayor Raymond Chintall told the newspaper.  "It's a really good thing for the kids - protecting the kids." Once the background checks are completed by the New Jersey State Police, the results will be sent to West Deptford police chief Craig Mangano, township administrator Eric Campo and solicitor Anthony Ogozalek. They will determine if the background check reveals any information that should prevent someone from working with children. If a prospective worker is disqualified from a youth job, they have the right to appeal the decision. Background checks also uncover a person's fiscal responsibility through a review of credit history, and verifies their experience and preparation for work duties by checking past employment and education.