Dear Scouters,
By now many of you have probably received an email from the Boy Scouts of America in regards to new policies regarding updates to the Criminal Background Checks we do to ensure we are always on the forefront of Youth Safety. Below you will see a copy of this email for your own reference. Yes this is indeed a valid email and we want to work with you, our volunteers, to make sure we handle this in an efficient way so as not to disrupt the scouting program. As the instructions in the email state you should complete the attached/linked forms as soon as possible. We encourage all units to collect these copies and turn them in with your unit charter. If you wish to though or if you have already turned them into the Local Scout Office we will gladly accept them as well. If you have any questions please feel free to contact either of our two offices.
Fresno: 559-320-2100 Visalia: 559-732-3424
Here is the email in question for your reference:
IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED
The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) is committed first and foremost to keeping youth safe. Part of that commitment includes continually updating our youth protection policies to help ensure we are always on the forefront of youth safety.
As you know, one of the BSA’s many barriers to abuse is a mandatory criminal background check during the adult volunteer application process. The BSA will now also perform periodic rechecks of criminal backgrounds to support the continued safety of youth in our programs.
Please complete the process listed below at your earliest availability to help us continue to provide the safest environment possible for our Scouts and leaders. Please note that these steps must be completed before your 2020 annual registration can be processed.
- Review the two separate disclosure documents linked below that are being provided to you separately for your review. They are titled “Background Check Disclosure” and “California State Law Disclosures (Non-Credit).”
- Once you have reviewed them, print the separate document titled “Additional Disclosures & Background Check Authorization.” Review the additional disclosures on that form, then complete and sign the Authorization using an ink/wet signature. Note: A print signature is required for this document. Electronic signatures will not be accepted.
- Turn in the signed “Additional Disclosures & Background Check Authorization” form promptly to your unit leader or local council service center.
If you choose to decline the background check, or if you do not complete the Additional Disclosures & Background Check Authorization form and return it to your unit leader or local council service center, your 2020 annual registration will not be processed.
We are truly grateful for your continued commitment to keeping youth safe and for helping them learn, grow, and thrive through Scouting programs.
California State Law Disclosures (Non-Credit)
Additional Disclosures & Background Check Authorization