Conducting Criminal Record Checks in Massachusetts
Employers in Massachusetts may obtain criminal record information from the Massachusetts Criminal History Systems Board. In addition, court records for all criminal cases are available for public inspection for one week following conviction and sentencing.
Agencies that provide home health aides, companions and certain other types of services to the elderly or to persons with disabilities and long-term care facilities must obtain all available criminal record information on individuals who will provide services before the individuals may be employed.
The school committee, superintendent and principal of any public school will have access to criminal offender record information regarding all applicants for all school positions, including subcontractors and laborers who perform work on school grounds if there may be direct contact between the applicant and school children.
Operators of Massachusetts camps for children and any entities or organizations primarily engaged in providing activities or programs to children 18 years or under that accept volunteers must obtain all available criminal offender record information for prospective and present employees and volunteers. This information should be used only for the purpose of furthering the protection of children.
