The Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) revisions that went into effect last month were intended to make it easier for former inmates to get jobs. But it places Massachusetts ex-convicts at a disadvantage with respect to those in neighboring states.

CORI only checks state records. Convictions in another state, or before moving to Massachusetts will not show. In a state with five bordering states and only 60 miles from top to bottom, many employment applicants may reside in other states. Employers (including my own company) which provide in-home services to seniors and the disabled are required to check applicants through the CORI system.

Across The Border

Employers don't have to check the records of job candidates from other states like Connecticut, Rhode Island and New Hampshire, giving former inmates from outside the state an advantage over former inmates who live in Massachusetts. An employer's only option is to go the considerable expense of tracking the person and obtaining multiple criminal records

and Social Security checks.

Another major impediment to employment is that obtaining CORI results can take days and depends on an antiquated and sometimes inaccurate system. CORI only checks under a person's name and date of birth, not his or her Social Security number. That means if a person has changed her name or if there are several people with the same name, employers can't be sure the report provides information on the actual candidate. We have received record checks showing convictions for the wrong person. The state has committed to developing an accurate and rapid computerized statewide database and reporting system for criminal records to address this. 

Fortunately, federal grants to develop a modern, accurate and rapid criminal records system are available. These grants would also supply employers like us with a federal criminal record check, covering the whole country, for each potential employee. Pilot programs have shown the advantages and demonstrated that very large numbers of convicts apply for home care jobs. The state could build its new system with three federal dollars for every state dollar and get accurate federal record checks.

The information from the federal database would only be distributed to employers who serve vulnerable populations. Providing Massachusetts employers access to the federal database would level the playing field for Massachusetts ex-convicts seeking employment. At the same time, it would help employers protect their vulnerable populations and allow more seniors to stay safely at home. 

Unfortunately, we have been told several times that the Patrick administration does not intend to apply for such a grant.

We are baffled as to why the administration does not want to access funding to build a modern criminal record system while providing accurate federal information that puts Massachusetts residents on par with their neighbors and helps protect vulnerable citizens.

Isn't that what CORI reform was supposed to be about? 

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