Fingerprinting and broad criminal background checks are just some of the new requirements proposed for Minnesotans who want to be foster parents.
The changes, part of a $1.2 million-a-year overhaul of the foster parent system, are being proposed partly to comply with federal standards designed to keep sexual offenders from preying on children. Wisconsin would see similar changes.
Background checks are currently done in Minnesota, at the county level. The proposal would have the checks done centrally, through the state. Advocates welcome the change, but warn that computer databanks won’t necessarily protect kids.
