Navigating the licensing process for Adult Foster Care (AFC) in Michigan involves several crucial steps. One essential requirement is the Bcal Adult Foster Care Fingerprint Scan. This process, mandated by the Bureau of Children and Adult Licensing (BCAL), is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals in adult foster care settings. This guide provides a detailed overview of the BCAL fingerprint scan, outlining its purpose, the process involved, and what you need to know as an applicant.
Understanding the Purpose of the BCAL Fingerprint Scan
The BCAL fingerprint scan serves three primary purposes in the Adult Foster Care licensing process:
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Address Verification: Initially, the fingerprint process aids in verifying the address of a family home applicant through the Secretary of State records. This step ensures accurate record-keeping and helps confirm the applicant’s residency.
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BCAL Licensing History Check: A key function of the fingerprint scan is to conduct a thorough check of BCAL files. This check determines if the applicant has a current or previous licensee status in any Michigan county. It’s a vital step in understanding an applicant’s history within the adult foster care system.
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Criminal Conviction Record Check: The fingerprint scan triggers a Department of State Police check to identify any potential criminal conviction records associated with the applicant. This background check is crucial for BCAL to assess the applicant’s suitability for licensure and to ensure the safety of residents.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Fingerprint Scan Process
When you are required to undergo a fingerprint scan for your Adult Foster Care license application, here’s what you need to do:
1. Obtain the Licensing Record Clearance Request Form (BCAL-1326A): You will need the official Licensing Record Clearance Request form, designated as BCAL-1326A. This form is essential for the fingerprinting process and must be presented at the time of your fingerprint scan.
2. Fingerprinting Appointment: Take the BCAL-1326A form with you when you go for your fingerprinting appointment. The form includes a section for the Fingerprint Specialist to fill in the Transaction Control Number (TCN). Important: Ensure the TCN is completed by the Fingerprint Specialist before you submit the form.
3. Choosing a Fingerprint Vendor: You have the option to select a fingerprint vendor approved by the Michigan State Police. A list of approved vendors is available on the official Michigan State Police website: www.michigan.gov/msp/fingerprinting. Using an approved vendor ensures that your fingerprints are processed correctly and efficiently.
4. Accuracy and Responsibility: It is crucial to use the correct fingerprint codes and the correct License Record Clearance Request form. Disclaimer: You are responsible for any fingerprints processed with incorrect codes or using the wrong form. The Michigan State Police will charge for second requests if errors are due to incorrect fingerprint codes.
Understanding the Impact of Conviction Records
It’s important to understand that the existence of a conviction record does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining an Adult Foster Care license. However, any conviction record will be carefully reviewed by BCAL licensing staff. They will evaluate the nature and severity of the conviction in relation to the responsibilities of an AFC licensee.
Providing accurate and truthful information throughout the application process is paramount. Failure to provide BCAL with truthful information and the required authorization on the forms can be sufficient grounds for license denial.
Your Rights and Data Privacy
By undergoing the fingerprint scan, you are authorizing several important checks and data uses:
- Michigan Department of State Police Records Check: You acknowledge that your records will be checked for criminal convictions by the Michigan Department of State Police.
- Ongoing Checks: The Department may perform these checks at any time while you are licensed or associated with a licensed facility to ensure continued compliance and safety.
- FBI and MSP Data Sharing: You understand that your personal information and fingerprints are submitted for searches against criminal identification records from both the Michigan State Police (MSP) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
- Record Release Authorization: You authorize the release of any records found to BCAL as part of your license application process.
- Data Retention and Routine Uses: Be aware that MSP and the FBI may retain your submitted information and fingerprints as permitted by the Federal Privacy Act of 1974. This includes routine uses beyond the primary purpose, such as disclosures to governmental authorities for law enforcement, counterintelligence, national security, or public safety purposes.
Procedure for Correcting Your Identification Records
You have the right to review your identification record. If you believe there are inaccuracies or incompleteness in your record, you have the right to request changes, corrections, or updates.
According to 28 CFR §16.34, the procedure to follow is:
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Contact the Contributing Agency: If you identify an error, you should first apply directly to the agency that contributed the questioned information.
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Challenge with the FBI: You can also directly challenge the accuracy or completeness of an entry with the FBI at:
FBI, Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division
ATTN: SCU, Mod. D2, 1000 Custer Hollow Road, Clarksburg, WV 26306
The FBI will then forward your challenge to the originating agency for verification and correction. Any necessary changes will be made by the FBI CJIS Division based on official communication from the contributing agency.
Conclusion
The BCAL adult foster care fingerprint scan is a mandatory and integral part of the Adult Foster Care licensing process in Michigan. It is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable adults in care. By understanding the process, your responsibilities, and your rights, you can navigate this requirement effectively and contribute to providing safe and supportive adult foster care environments. Remember to use the correct forms, choose an approved vendor, and provide truthful information throughout your application.
