Does the general custodian of election records need to get written permission from the election officials, staff, and temporary employees before running a background check?
Section 129.051(g), Election Code does not address the issue of permission or notice. We recognize that some people, particularly if they have been with the county for a long time, will take umbrage at what they perceive as an attack on the personal integrity. Other people, particularly those who have been employed in the private sector or in school districts or who have done volunteer work with youth groups, understand that such criminal background checks have now become part of our way of life. The county’s HR Department probably has appropriate notice/permission forms and can guide you in how to approach election officials, staff, and temporary employees concerning criminal background checks. If HR is facing this issue for the first time with you, we suggest that you talk one on one with the people on whom background checks will be run, and provide them with a short letter telling them about the requirements of Section 129.051, Election Code and how the background check will be cond
Related Questions
- Is it necessary to obtain written permission of the concerned Government authorities or local authorities for setting up of election booth?
- May a records custodian charge a requestor for the labor/staff time involved in producing requested copies?
- Are records of elected officials excluded from the FOIP Act?
