Board adds FBI fingerprint‑based checks for applicants who will work directly with children

The Halifax County Board of Commissioners voted on Oct. 6 to amend the county personnel policy to require fingerprint‑based state and national criminal history record checks, administered through the FBI, for applicants whose positions involve direct work with children.

Human Resources Director Kristen Shotwell explained the change reflects a modification in state law effective Oct. 1, 2025 (as read into the record during the meeting). The proposed resolution amends Article 5, Section 5.6 of the personnel policy (Preemployment Criminal Background Checks) to add language that the county will require an applicant for positions that involve direct work with children to undergo an FBI fingerprint‑based state and national criminal history check conducted in accordance with state statute.

Shotwell said that the county already performs preemployment checks but that the new requirement expands the fingerprint‑based check framework beyond current local checks and that some county functions (for example, child‑support staff) already used fingerprint checks. Commissioners asked staff to coordinate implementation and to ensure the county can perform or process the FBI‑based checks for positions across departments such as social services, recreation and others that involve direct contact with minors.

The board approved the personnel policy resolution by unanimous voice vote.

Ending

With the amendment approved, county HR will implement procedures for fingerprint‑based FBI checks for applicants whose jobs include direct work with children; staff will coordinate logistics and training across departments.