Is Your Background Screening Program Current
And Compliant?
The screening industry has seen significant changes over the last several months including newly proposed federal and state legislation, updated technologies and new resources. For employers, an outdated screening program that doesn’t adhere to current regulations or ignores the latest screening tools can substantially increase the chance of noncompliance and put your company at risk for significant liabilities. A fresh review of your program will leverage efficiencies from updated services, and keep your program comprehensive and up-to-date.
In these tough economic times, many organizations have been affected with reductions in personnel and monetary resources, and internal screening proficiencies may have been lost. Employers should always conduct a yearly review of their screening program with HR Legal Counsel to ensure proper compliance. In addition, EBI can assist by reviewing your FCRA compliance measures and internal pre-adverse and adverse action process for proper compliance. EBI is committed to keeping our clients knowledgeable with regard to current state and federal regulations and compliance protocols.
Immigration Compliance Enforcement (ICE) is taking a very aggressive stand on firms employing undocumented workers, and levying substantial fines and even criminal penalties for Form I-9 noncompliance. Employers that participate in government contracts also have new compliance requirements based on Executive Order 13465, which requires the use of E-Verify, beginning on September 8, 2009, if your contract has this provision. Individual states are also stepping up enforcement of regulations around employing undocumented workers and requiring the use of E-Verify. EBI’s E-Verify state compliance map makes it easy to track state E-Verify mandates, and optional E-Verify services assist in compliance initiatives. EBI’s Electronic Form I-9 solution with E-Verify provides you with an integrated and seamless electronic process for proper compliance.
Employment and education fraud are at an all time high as job seekers continue to create fictitious credentials to attempt to separate themselves from the pack in a highly competitive market. The time, resources and staff it takes to verify a candidate’s past employment or education credentials are not available for many employers. As a result, the use of social media has become a short-cut for many HR departments, but this practice could generate potential liability and privacy rights discrimination concerns. Rely on EBI’s professionally trained Verifications Department to properly verify credentials and detect fraud. EBI’s team is armed with the tools and knowledge to save you time and money, and help get your new-hire on the job faster.
Many employers, whatever their size, don’t realize they are missing out on millions of unclaimed dollars through the federally funded WOTC (Work Opportunity Tax Credit) and other state and locally funded tax credit programs. As of February 3, 2010, The HIRE Act now enables employers to take advantage of tax credit savings through their portion of an employee’s SSA payroll match for positions being created during the 2010 calendar year. EBI can contribute to the funding of your entire screening program by helping you cash-in on available tax incentive programs.
Studies have proven that employers who incorporate a program that includes pre-employment, random and post-accident drug testing realize huge savings through decreases in worker’s compensation premiums; reduction of occupational safety risks; and increased productivity. Implementing a drug-free workplace program pays for itself over time. Several states are providing substantial worker’s compensation rate reduction programs for employers that incorporate such a program. EBI can design and implement a drug and alcohol testing program to meet your policy requirements that can be incorporated domestically or even internationally. With EBI’s proprietary technology, tracking your testing program through our online management center is easy with “just one” click.
It’s time to take a fresh look at your screening process. Stop by Booth #2007 and meet our knowledgeable staff. EBI can update you with the latest in tools, tips and technologies to enhance any screening program and insure that it remains compliant.
Read Past Editions of The Source
All information contained herein is provided by Employment Background Investigations solely for the convenience of its clients. EBI is not providing legal advice or counsel and nothing provided on this document should be deemed as legal guidance or advice. Readers should consult with their own legal counsel to determine their legal responsibilities or if they have questions on any information provided by EBI.